Ben Shelton's Racket: What Does He Use? (2025 Update)

Alright, racket enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the world of Ben Shelton and the weapon of choice he wields on the court. Understanding the equipment used by top players like Shelton can provide valuable insights for your own game, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out. We'll explore the specifics of his racket, strings, and any customizations he might have, giving you a comprehensive look at what makes his gear unique. Keep in mind that pro players often tweak their equipment to suit their individual playing styles, so what works for Shelton might not be a perfect fit for everyone. However, by examining his setup, you can gain a better understanding of how different components can affect performance and make informed decisions about your own equipment. In the ever-evolving world of tennis technology, staying updated on the latest gear is essential for both players and fans. As we move into 2025, it's crucial to have the most current information on the rackets used by top players. So, let's get into the details of Ben Shelton's racket and see what makes it a standout choice for his powerful game.

Unveiling Ben Shelton's Racket of Choice

So, what exactly is Ben Shelton swinging out there? As of 2023 and expected to continue into 2025, Shelton endorses and uses the Yonex EZONE 98. This racket is known for its blend of power and control, making it a popular choice among players who like to dictate play with aggressive shots. The EZONE series is designed with an emphasis on a larger sweet spot, which provides more forgiveness on off-center hits and allows players to maintain power and accuracy even when they don't strike the ball perfectly. For a player like Shelton, who relies on his explosive serve and powerful groundstrokes, the EZONE 98 offers the stability and responsiveness he needs to execute his shots effectively. The racket's isometric head shape also contributes to its larger sweet spot, ensuring consistent performance across the string bed. Additionally, the EZONE 98 is designed with vibration-dampening technology to enhance comfort and reduce the risk of injury. This is particularly important for professional players who spend countless hours on the court, practicing and competing at the highest level. In summary, the Yonex EZONE 98 provides Shelton with a balanced combination of power, control, and comfort, making it an ideal choice for his demanding style of play.

Delving Deeper: Specs and Customizations

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty details! While Ben Shelton uses the Yonex EZONE 98, it's not exactly the same as what you'd find on the shelf at your local tennis shop. Pro players often have their rackets customized to perfectly match their preferences and playing styles. These customizations can include adjustments to weight, balance, and grip size, among other things. The standard Yonex EZONE 98 typically weighs around 11.5 ounces (326 grams) unstrung and has a head size of 98 square inches. However, Shelton's racket likely has added weight in the head and handle to increase its stability and power. This added weight helps him generate more racquet head speed and hit with greater force. In terms of balance, pro players often prefer a head-light balance, which makes the racket easier to maneuver and swing quickly. Shelton's racket probably has a balance point that is several points head-light. The grip size is another important customization. A grip that is too small or too large can negatively impact a player's control and feel for the ball. Shelton likely uses a grip size that allows him to comfortably hold the racket and generate the necessary spin on his shots. In addition to these basic customizations, Shelton might also use a custom string pattern or add a layer of lead tape to fine-tune the racket's performance. All of these small adjustments add up to a racket that is perfectly tailored to his individual needs and preferences.

The Strings That Sing: Ben Shelton's String Setup

Okay, so we know Ben Shelton is rocking the Yonex EZONE 98, but what about the strings? Strings are a crucial component of any racket setup, as they directly impact the feel, power, and control of the ball. While the specific strings and tension Shelton uses can vary, it's known that he experiments with different setups to find the perfect combination for his game. Typically, professional tennis players use a hybrid string setup, which involves using two different types of strings in the main and cross strings. This allows them to combine the benefits of different string materials and optimize the racket's performance. For example, a player might use a polyester string in the mains for added control and durability, and a softer synthetic gut or multifilament string in the crosses for enhanced feel and comfort. The tension of the strings is also a critical factor. Lower tensions generally provide more power and a larger sweet spot, while higher tensions offer greater control and spin potential. Shelton likely experiments with different tensions depending on the court surface, weather conditions, and his opponent's playing style. He probably works closely with his equipment sponsors and stringers to fine-tune his string setup and ensure that his racket is performing at its best. Keep in mind that string technology is constantly evolving, so Shelton might switch to newer string models as they become available. Ultimately, the goal is to find a string setup that complements his racket and allows him to play his best tennis.

Why This Racket Works for Shelton: A Perfect Match

So, why is the Yonex EZONE 98 such a great fit for Ben Shelton? The answer lies in the synergy between the racket's characteristics and Shelton's playing style. Shelton is known for his aggressive baseline game, characterized by powerful groundstrokes and a booming serve. The EZONE 98 provides the stability and power he needs to execute these shots effectively. The racket's 98-square-inch head size offers a good balance between control and forgiveness, allowing him to swing freely without sacrificing accuracy. The isometric head shape expands the sweet spot, ensuring consistent performance even on off-center hits. This is particularly important for a player like Shelton, who often hits the ball with a lot of pace and spin. The EZONE 98's frame construction also contributes to its power and stability. The racket is made with high-quality materials that provide a solid feel and minimize twisting upon impact. This allows Shelton to transfer more energy to the ball and generate greater racquet head speed. Additionally, the EZONE 98 is designed with vibration-dampening technology to enhance comfort and reduce the risk of injury. This is crucial for a professional player who puts a lot of stress on their body. In summary, the Yonex EZONE 98 is a perfect match for Shelton's aggressive game style, providing the power, control, and comfort he needs to compete at the highest level.

Alternatives to Consider: Other Rackets for Similar Playstyles

Okay, so maybe you're not Ben Shelton, but you admire his game and want to find a racket that can help you emulate his style. While the Yonex EZONE 98 is a great choice, there are several other rackets on the market that offer similar characteristics and might be worth considering. One popular alternative is the Wilson Blade 98. This racket is known for its exceptional feel and control, making it a favorite among players who like to dictate play with precise shots. The Blade 98 has a slightly smaller head size than the EZONE 98, which gives it a more controlled feel. Another option is the Babolat Pure Drive. This racket is all about power, making it a great choice for players who like to hit big serves and groundstrokes. The Pure Drive has a larger head size than the EZONE 98, which provides a larger sweet spot and more forgiveness on off-center hits. For players who prefer a more comfortable feel, the Head Graphene 360+ Speed Pro is a good choice. This racket is designed with vibration-dampening technology to enhance comfort and reduce the risk of injury. The Speed Pro also offers a good balance of power and control, making it a versatile option for a variety of playing styles. Ultimately, the best way to find the right racket for you is to demo several different models and see which one feels the most comfortable and performs the best for your game. Don't be afraid to experiment with different string setups and customizations as well, as these can significantly impact the racket's performance.

Final Thoughts: Gear Up Like a Pro

So, there you have it! A comprehensive look at the racket of choice for Ben Shelton. From the Yonex EZONE 98 to the strings he uses and the customizations he makes, we've covered all the essential details. Remember, while using the same equipment as a pro player won't automatically make you a champion, understanding their gear choices can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions about your own equipment. Whether you're an aspiring pro or a recreational player, finding the right racket is crucial for maximizing your performance and enjoying the game to the fullest. So, do your research, demo different models, and experiment with different setups until you find the perfect fit for your individual needs and playing style. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be the one inspiring others with your gear choices! Keep playing, keep improving, and keep having fun out on the court!