As someone who has been following Roger Federer’s career—and his gear—closely, there’s something undeniably captivating about the Wilson RF series. When I first got my hands on the Wilson RF 01 Pro, it was more than just a racket; it felt like holding a piece of Federer’s legacy. There’s something almost ceremonial about pulling out the sleek black frame, the weight perfectly balanced, the signature crisp feel intact. This isn’t just a racket—it’s the continuation of Federer’s long-standing relationship with Wilson, a partnership that has defined an era of tennis.
The story of the Wilson RF line dates back to Federer’s early days with the brand. While he was still on his way to becoming the most decorated player of all time, Federer and Wilson developed the Pro Staff RF97 Autograph, a racket that perfectly suited his attacking style of play. Known for its power and control, the RF97 became a symbol of precision, grace, and dominance on the tennis court, much like Federer himself. The RF97 was, and still is, a serious racket—heavy, with a 12.6-ounce frame, and tailored for advanced players who can handle its mass. It wasn’t just for anyone; you had to want to play with a racket like this. You had to want to emulate Federer’s aggressive, all-court play.
Fast forward to 2024, and Wilson has expanded the RF line with new models that keep Federer’s aesthetic and performance DNA intact but offer something for a wider range of players. The Wilson RF 01 Pro, for instance, is the centerpiece of this evolution. It’s an updated version of Federer’s Pro Staff lineage but with slightly more accessible specs—lighter, more maneuverable, and designed with a focus on modern play styles.
What’s fascinating about the RF 01 Pro is how it bridges Federer’s classic game with a younger generation of players who may never have seen him in his prime but want to connect with the artistry and precision that defined his career. The 98 square inch head size gives you the control Federer was known for, while its lighter swing weight compared to earlier models makes it easier to generate spin and power, especially on fast-paced surfaces.
The first time I swung the RF 01 Pro, I could immediately feel the difference. It’s whippier than the older RF97 models, allowing for faster racket head speed without losing the stability that makes Wilson’s Pro Staff line so iconic. Volleys felt crisp, almost effortless, and while it doesn’t pack the same mass behind each shot as its predecessors, it more than makes up for it with its blend of control and maneuverability. Serving with this racket feels like a dream—easy access to power, especially when going for that Federer-style slice serve out wide.
Wilson has also introduced the RF 01 Future, a lighter version intended for players who are either just starting out or transitioning into more demanding rackets. At around 10.4 ounces strung, it offers many of the same benefits—control, stability, and that unmistakable Pro Staff feel—but in a more manageable package for juniors or intermediate players looking for their first real “performance” racket. The RF 01 Future plays with surprising stability for its weight, and it’s much more forgiving than I expected. It’s a smart move by Wilson to create a racket that retains the essence of the Pro Staff line while being more accessible to a broader range of players.
What makes these rackets truly remarkable isn’t just the performance, though. It’s the story behind them, the design philosophy that Federer has so clearly influenced. Every element, from the carbon braid construction to the balance and stiffness, reflects Federer’s own style of play—precise, elegant, and always with a touch of aggression. Even the aesthetics—sleek black, understated yet classy—echo Federer’s on-court persona: minimal yet deadly efficient. The RF line isn’t just about nostalgia for Federer fans; it’s a tangible link to the artistry that Federer brought to the sport, a piece of his legacy that players can hold and wield.
As I’ve continued to test the RF 01 Pro, I’ve realized that it’s more than just a tool for hitting tennis balls—it’s an invitation to play a certain kind of tennis. It’s about taking the ball early, about feeling confident enough to step inside the baseline and dictate points, knowing that the racket won’t let you down. In many ways, the RF 01 is Roger’s lasting gift to tennis players—a reminder that the game can be both technical and artistic, aggressive yet graceful.
Ultimately, whether you choose the heavier RF 01 Pro or the lighter RF 01 Future, what you’re really buying into is a philosophy. Federer may no longer be competing on the professional stage, but his legacy lives on in every swing of these rackets. And for those of us who still want to emulate his style, even just a little, these new Wilson RF rackets offer the perfect blend of tradition and innovation to keep the spirit of Federer alive on the court.
