Ask the Co-Designers of the RF 97 Autograph Questions!

Status
Not open for further replies.
TW Staff

TW Staff

Administrator
Attention Talk Tennis Members!

You have an amazing opportunity to ask questions to two of the people that worked closely with Roger Federer to create his new Wilson Pro Staff RF 97 Autograph that is launching for pre-sale August 18th.

You can check out the racquet here:
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Wilson_Pro_Staff_RF_97_Autograph/descpageRCWILSON-PSRF97.html

This thread will be open for questions about the new RF racquet and Roger's involvement with the whole process. Peter Figasinski and Nathan Price will be online throughout the week answering your questions. Here is a little bit more information about each of them:

Peter Figasinski (PeterFig on the message board):
Peter Figasinski has been designing tennis racquets for Wilson since 2014. He has an extensive design background in several industries. Peter’s first work was the 2014 Pro Staff, and he has designed all Performance Racquets since, including the Wilson Burn, Blade, and Ultra. Peter loves tennis and is an avid player who’s played with Wilson racquets ever since his first Pro Staff 85 back in 1990 when one of his favorite players, Stefan Edberg, was on tour. Peter now plays with the Wilson Pro Staff 97S strung with Wilson Natural Gut and Luxilon Alu Power strings.

Nathan Price:
Nathan Price has been Wilson’s Global Product Manager in charge of Performance Racquets worldwide since 2013. He has an extensive background in the tennis industry and a passion for the sport. Nathan grew up working at his parents’ tennis specialty store, Totally Tennis, then went on to become a highly-accomplished top college player at the University of Arkansas and played on the tour earning ATP rankings for six years. He has 3 USTA gold balls and 2 silver balls in Father & Son doubles. Nathan plays with the Wilson Blade 98S strung with Luxilon Element Strings.

TW Staff

Note- Please keep the questions specific to the topic. Not all questions will be answered and some may be removed if not on topic.

PS- Stay tuned until the end of the week where we will make a special announcement in the Racquet forum!
 
Awesome opportunity! Thanks TW, Petiger Figasinski, and Nathan Price for organizing and participating! I'll get the ball rolling.

1) Why does it say "v 11.0" on the racquet. Is it because Prototype version 11.0 was the version that Roger Federer settled with when he finally decided to move away from the Pro Staff 90?

2) Why was the true box beam designed abandoned for the current semi-box beam design?
 
Wilson Official said:
Welcome everyone! We are looking forward to some fun discussion.
- Nathan and Peter
Click to expand...
Hello Nathan and Peter

Thanks in advance for your time to answer questions to the Talk Tennis members.

What was the biggest challenge in the newest graphic design for the RF97?
 
Say Chi Sin Lo said:
Awesome opportunity! Thanks TW, Petiger Figasinski, and Nathan Price for organizing and participating! I'll get the ball rolling.

1) Why does it say "v 11.0" on the racquet. Is it because Prototype version 11.0 was the version that Roger Federer settled with when he finally decided to move away from the Pro Staff 90?

2) Why was the true box beam designed abandoned for the current semi-box beam design?
Click to expand...

v11.0 refers to the 11th iteration of the Pro Staff line since the original Pro Staff 85. All Pro Staff racquets for 2016 will have that version number as it reflects the overall Pro Staff line and not a specific model.

The new Pro Staff RF97 (including 2014 version) was engineered initially directly with Roger in terms of what he was looking for in a new racquet. The specs and beam shape were created to match what he was looking for in terms of an update to his previous PS90. He tested many prototypes and settled on the racquet he plays with today. That racquet was then also released to retail.

- Peter
 
What a great way to reach the community! Thank you for doing this.

I have a question that has perplexed me about the different string patterns:

I prefer a 16x19 set up vs 18x20, but I also notice that on a lot of the racquets I string, the spacing of the middle strings is generally tighter than the spacing of the outer strings. I wonder, does this defeat the purpose of an 'open string bed'?
 
Where did the idea for the elastic paint come from?
What was the reasoning behind laser etching vs traditional paint?
I can't wait to see these sticks in person!
 
Wilson Official said:
v11.0 refers to the 11th iteration of the Pro Staff line since the original Pro Staff 85. All Pro Staff racquets for 2016 will have that version number as it reflects the overall Pro Staff line and not a specific model.

The new Pro Staff RF97 (including 2014 version) was engineered initially directly with Roger in terms of what he was looking for in a new racquet. The specs and beam shape were created to match what he was looking for in terms of an update to his previous PS90. He tested many prototypes and settled on the racquet he plays with today. That racquet was then also released to retail.
Click to expand...

Thank you for your answer.

Aside from the cosmetic changes, can you comment on whether or not there has been other structural/playability changes to the racquet 2016 version compared to the 2014 version?

More importantly, is the stiffness and swingweight identical to the 2014 version?
 
Geoff said:
Hello Nathan and Peter

Thanks in advance for your time to answer questions to the Talk Tennis members.

What was the biggest challenge in the newest graphic design for the RF97?
Click to expand...

I think with this new design we really tried to push the envelope a little in terms of details and finishes. (ex: elastic paint and laser etching) so the challenge was to bring the design vision we had to life. Luckily we have an amazing R&D team that contributed hugely to the design finishes on this racquet. I think it's safe to say that the involvement of R&D in the actual graphic design elements was more in-depth on this new line of racquets then ever before.

- Peter
 
Are there any differences between the 2014 RF and the new black one, paintjob aside? If I get another RF (I already have two black and red 2014 ones) will it play any different? Any differences in specs or material composition? Heard rumors saying Wilson changed the material using the experience with the Burn FST, any truth in that?
Thanks!
 
vsbabolat said:
Hi Nathan and Peter, Other than the change in cosmetics what are the differences between the current RF97 Autograph and the new RF97 Autograph that is being released?
Click to expand...

+1 on this Nathan and Peter. What does the elastic paint provide in terms of performance benefits?
 
Many of Wilson's racket (like this one) skip 7&9 Head and throat. I really don't have a big issue with that but occasionally some of the frames (like the 90 series) tie off mains at 6 throat this causes a double blocked hole at 7 throat. When you tie off at 8 throat the strings on the outside of the frame are staggered, then if you're not careful you have zig-zagging strings on the outside of the frame. This leads to my question why does Wilson prefer 7&9 throat skips holes as opposed to having he mains skip 8 throat?

The question above pertains to a 16 main on an 18 main why skip 8&10 rather than 9 throat?
 
gino said:
+1 on this Nathan and Peter. What does the elastic paint provide in terms of performance benefits?
Click to expand...

The elastic paint is primarily a design feature that adds both to the look but more importantly the feel of the racquet when handled. As a secondary benefit it does however provide a nice stable feel when handling the racquet with the non playing hand on shots like the one-handed backhand. Chris from TW already noticed this on the last Vlog.


- Peter
 
Wilson Official said:
The elastic paint is primarily a design feature that adds both to the look but more importantly the feel of the racquet when handled. As a secondary benefit it does however provide a nice stable feel when handling the racquet with the non playing hand on shots like the one-handed backhand. Chris from TW already noticed this on the last Vlog.


- Peter
Click to expand...
Are there any other changes in performance?
 
Wilson Official said:
The elastic paint is primarily a design feature that adds both to the look but more importantly the feel of the racquet when handled. As a secondary benefit it does however provide a nice stable feel when handling the racquet with the non playing hand on shots like the one-handed backhand. Chris from TW already noticed this on the last Vlog.


- Peter
Click to expand...

Thank you for putting that into consideration. I play with a one handed backhand and the way the throat feels on my off-hand is very important. That's why the matte finish of all Pro Staffs has always been my preferred finish.
 
Wilson Official said:
v11.0 refers to the 11th iteration of the Pro Staff line since the original Pro Staff 85. All Pro Staff racquets for 2016 will have that version number as it reflects the overall Pro Staff line and not a specific model.
- Peter
Click to expand...
Very interesting, Peter.

Just out of curiosity, would you be able to list all 11 iterations of the Pro Staff line? No problem if you can't.

I'm pretty sure the first graphite Pro Staff was the Pro Staff 110, wasn't it?
 
Say Chi Sin Lo said:
I'll 2nd that. Several of us are still perfectly happy with our midsize (88/90) and would love to see our beloved midsize frames dressed in black once again (much like the 6.0 85), please!
Click to expand...
Well, since we're also talking about other racquets, as I suggested in another thread, is there any chance whatsoever that Wilson would be willing to re-release the 2014 PS 90 but with the updated all-black RF97A paintjob? Even as a Special or Limited Edition? :)
 
vsbabolat said:
Hi Nathan and Peter, Other than the change in cosmetics what are the differences between the current RF97 Autograph and the new RF97 Autograph that is being released?
Click to expand...

I'm interested in this as well. Thanks for taking the time to doing this Nathan and Peter. It's much appreciated.
 
StringingIrvine said:
Where did the idea for the elastic paint come from?
What was the reasoning behind laser etching vs traditional paint?
I can't wait to see these sticks in person!
Click to expand...

The design details like the elastic paint and laser etching were all based on Roger's original overall vision going back well over a year or more ago to what he wanted his next racquet to look like. He had a very specific vision interns of a elegant, simple and clean design that matched his style. He challenged us on making the racquet as clean and subtle as possible but to pay close attention to the details. We then researched and developed elements like the elastic paint and then met with him on numerous occasions over the last year+ to further work on getting that look right and choose the various elements such as picking just the right feel for the elastic paint.

To say that Roger was involved in the design would almost be an understatement. Not only was the overall vision for this sleek, clean racquet his idea, but he was involved in all the details. When I say all the details I mean just that. As an example of this in-depth involvement: he gave me extensive in-person feedback on the placement, position and orientation of the grip size sticker inside the throat. The relation of the grip size sticker to the hologram Wilson sticker, and the spacing and sizing of the spec box icons. And that's just one example of many.

- Peter
 
Last edited:
I would be very interested to know more about the new 97S.

Could you tell me about the beam and balance?

Have you played with it?

Thanks!!
 
Wilson Official said:
The design details like the elastic paint and laser etching were all based on Roger's original overall vision going back well over a year or more ago to what he wanted his next racquet to look like. He had a very specific vision interns of a elegant, simple and clean design that matched his style. He challenged us on making the racquet as clean and subtle as possible but to pay close attention to the details. We then researched and developed elements like the elastic paint and then met with him on numerous occasions over the last year+ to further work on getting that look right and choose the various elements such as picking just the right feel for the elastic paint.

To say that Roger was involved in the design would almost be an understatement. Not only was the overall vision for this sleek, clean racquet his idea, but he was involved in all the details. When I say all the details I mean just that. As an example of this in-depth involvement: he gave me extensive in-person feedback on the placement, position and orientation of the grip size sticker inside the throat. The relation of the grip size sticker to the hologram Wilson sticker, and the spacing and sizing of the spec box icons. And that's just one example of many.
Click to expand...

I'm sure he was extremely involved. But let's not forget that the tennis community, such as this one right here, have been asking for an all-black racquet ever since the news of an updated Pro Staff was released. So both him, and the rest of us, have been asking for a sleek, simple Pro Staff.
 
I will get straight to the questions....

1. Was there anything specifically taken into consideration to make the racket move faster through air?

2. If you were asked to define the most revolutionary feature in the new design in one or two words, what would that be?
 
Was there ever consideration for making the beam thinner? I would have loved a 17mm beam as I am sure many others would have.

Can't get a better feeling racquet than the PS 85 and the beam thickness was a big part of that imo.
 
Another question. What are the long term plans for the current RF97 when, perish the thought, Roger retires. Is the vision for the RF97 to become the next in line of the iconic Wilson racquets?
 
KaiserW said:
Was there ever consideration for making the beam thinner? I would have loved a 17mm beam as I am sure many others would have.

Can't get a better feeling racquet than the PS 85 and the beam thickness was a big part of that imo.
Click to expand...

Back when the RF97 was first created Roger tried many prototypes including ones with thinner beams. However he chose the one he currently plays with. We then made that exact racquet available for sale.

- Peter
 
Is there anything you can tell us about the non cosmetic differences between this version of the RF and the previous one?
 
Hi Peter =).
I'm a 3D modeler and tennis nerd, my dream work would be to be involved in the design of tennis rackets. Do you have a team for the functional part of the design and another for the cosmetics? If I know nothing about forces, materials , is it possible to get in this field just using 3D modelers like 3D Studio Max, Rhinoceros, Maya, polygonal and Nurbs based ? Or, I need to get involved on simulation , physics and materials ?
Greetings
 
Wilson Official said:
The design details like the elastic paint and laser etching were all based on Roger's original overall vision going back well over a year or more ago to what he wanted his next racquet to look like. He had a very specific vision interns of a elegant, simple and clean design that matched his style. He challenged us on making the racquet as clean and subtle as possible but to pay close attention to the details. We then researched and developed elements like the elastic paint and then met with him on numerous occasions over the last year+ to further work on getting that look right and choose the various elements such as picking just the right feel for the elastic paint.

To say that Roger was involved in the design would almost be an understatement. Not only was the overall vision for this sleek, clean racquet his idea, but he was involved in all the details. When I say all the details I mean just that. As an example of this in-depth involvement: he gave me extensive in-person feedback on the placement, position and orientation of the grip size sticker inside the throat. The relation of the grip size sticker to the hologram Wilson sticker, and the spacing and sizing of the spec box icons. And that's just one example of many.

- Peter
Click to expand...
Pretty incredible, Peter! Thanks for the insight. :)

Now, I'll just have to ask one question: Did you get a chance to hit with Roger? ;)
 
I honestly don't get the TT community sometimes...

A company changes a working formula for a racquet and everyone is up in arms.

A company updates with pseudo technologies and people ridicule it.

Now a company actually maintains a working formula and people are complaining, literally asking for pseudo technologies...


But back to the point of this thread: what is the vision regarding the Pro Staff line in the future? Does the RF97 still have a place in the line, and how do you see the other models potentially changing?

I really appreciate this opportunity and thank you both very much for it. Congratulations on a stellar looking Pro Staff line up :)
 
Hey Peter and Nathan!
as a kid who loves the old RF97, well done!!!

To be honest, i saw the leaked pictures online and i was shocked as this was not really what i expected. it was 'OK' at first... but then i fell in love.
great job with the laser etching and color scheme, esp with the elastic paint.

Questions:
1. what is the difference (apart from obv. cosmetic changes) from this to the old RF97? (i heard there is some foam dampening thing, is that correct? and some power strips?)

2. Is the hairpin still full of foam? or is it hard? :p

3. PLEASE can i get a custom PS85?!

4. is the RF autograph going to be contd. after The Maestro's VERYYYY possible retirement?
 
I do not get it. I can safely assume that there's nothing changed in terms of the performance nor technology. How can you justify the price increase? Also, how can the velvety touch increase the performance of the racquet?
 
Wilson, I am sure that you have heard lots of feedback for this board about the spec of the racket not suitable for regular consumer player due factors such as its weight. Would you think it's a sensible move from Wilson to release an identical spec racket?
 
mugener said:
Wilson, I am sure that you have heard lots of feedback for this board about the spec of the racket not suitable for regular consumer player due factors such as its weight. Would you think it's a sensible move from Wilson to release an identical spec racket?
Click to expand...

It's Federer's racquet and they're giving it to us. Either buy it or don't, there are 4 different lighter versions if you can't handle it.
 
SpinToWin said:
I honestly don't get the TT community sometimes...

A company changes a working formula for a racquet and everyone is up in arms.

A company updates with pseudo technologies and people ridicule it.

Now a company actually maintains a working formula and people are complaining, literally asking for pseudo technologies...


But back to the point of this thread: what is the vision regarding the Pro Staff line in the future? Does the RF97 still have a place in the line, and how do you see the other models potentially changing?

I really appreciate this opportunity and thank you both very much for it. Congratulations on a stellar looking Pro Staff line up :)
Click to expand...

@SpinToWin - True, man, So true!!! I completely agree with you.

Sometimes people here in this forum are annoying...
 
Why was the Pro Staff 97 (which is supposed to be the same but lighter version of the RF97) relegated to a different paintjob while the LS and S versions got the Black paintjob? Is there still time to change that?
 
Migelowsky said:
Hi Peter =).
I'm a 3D modeler and tennis nerd, my dream work would be to be involved in the design of tennis rackets. Do you have a team for the functional part of the design and another for the cosmetics? If I know nothing about forces, materials , is it possible to get in this field just using 3D modelers like 3D Studio Max, Rhinoceros, Maya, polygonal and Nurbs based ? Or, I need to get involved on simulation , physics and materials ?
Greetings
Click to expand...

There are graphic designers (like me) that work on racquet designs, there are also 3D modellers, and there are also engineers. So I think your skill set would find a place.
- Peter
 
BreakPoint said:
Pretty incredible, Peter! Thanks for the insight. :)

Now, I'll just have to ask one question: Did you get a chance to hit with Roger? ;)
Click to expand...

I didn't ..... but maybe that's a good thing. No need to mess up his game with my rec strokes.
..... but maybe Nathan can reply to this one as well ;)

- Peter
 
Thank you for taking time to answer questions, and be an active part of the community!!
Is the whole racquet foam filled, or just the handle? (or is there no foam at all?)
Does the hoop have a flat beam on the outside, similar to the H22? Or is it angled like the blades? (I do not have the original RF97A)
If you are familiar with the old Hotmelt 200 and 300G's, is that a good comparison to the velvety paint on the RF?
What is the meaning of the dog (who is it?) in Peterfig's avatar (not RF related, but I have always wondered) ;)
Thank you again! It looks like a sweet racquet!!
 
Last edited:
Did you guys test this frame with red strings?

Just imagine a black racquet (all black) with black grip and red strings.

Just imagine...
 
nadalito92 said:
Why was the Pro Staff 97 (which is supposed to be the same but lighter version of the RF97) relegated to a different paintjob while the LS and S versions got the Black paintjob? Is there still time to change that?
Click to expand...

Interesting question but the approach we took is quite different than how some people on here are thinking about it.

One of our main goals for this new iteration of the Pro Staff line was to have a stronger visual differentiation between Roger's RF97 and the rest of the Pro Staff line. As a result the RF97 was given the all black treatment Roger wanted, and we brought back the red accent which has a strong heritage in the Pro Staff history for the other Pro Staffs. Roger however rightfully recognized that juniors wanted to play with "his" racquet but of course the specs of the RF97 are too much for them. So his idea (which we loved!) was to have the 97LS and 97ULS (racquets used by many juniors) more closely follow his own racquet's design. So as an upcoming junior one could progress from the 97ULS to the 97LS and when they became old enough finally the RF97 but all under the same design of Roger's racquet. That also allowed the PS97 and PS97S to have their own identity for the many other Pro Staff tour players.

- Peter
 
Status
Not open for further replies.

Similar threads

H
Pro staff RF 97
Replies
8
Views
1K
lelopez
lelopez
Raul_SJ
Anyone here extended the Pro Staff RF 97? How does it play?
Replies
7
Views
581
inwoodnyc
I
TW Staff
  • Locked
Ask the Racquet Designers of the New Tecnifibre TFight RS Racquets Questions!
2
Replies
76
Views
9K
TW Staff
TW Staff
TW Staff
Tennis Warehouse Playtest: 2016 Wilson Pro Staff RF 97 Autograph
16 17 18
Replies
863
Views
91K
tennisfiles
tennisfiles
A
Wilson Pro Staff RF97 Autograph v13 missing paint job?
Replies
6
Views
1K
1HBHfanatic
1HBHfanatic
Back
Top