Yoshihito Nishioka’s racquet – Player Profile

Yoshihito Nishioka is a player from Japan with a career high rank of 24, but what is Nishioka’s racquet and gear?

Yoshihito Nishioka’s tennis racquet

Thanks to fellow tennis nerd, Bruno, we now know the specs of Yoshihito Nishioka’s racquet. It’s lighter than you think.

As far as I understand, Nishioka is using a Yonex VCORE 98 (2023 version). This is the same as Tommy Paul’s racquet, but the specs differ. Tommy’s is a bit heavier as far as I understand and remember.

When I reviewed the Yonex VCORE 2023 racquets, the 98 was my favorite, usually reserved for the 95. But I think the 98 slots well in between the 100 and the 95 and is perhaps the most logical choice for most people as it balances well between power, spin, and control.

Yoshihito Nishioka

Yoshihito Nishioka was born on September 27, 1995, and turned professional in 2014.

Career Highlights

Nishioka has won three ATP Tour singles titles. He achieved his career-high singles ranking of No. 24 on June 19, 2023. At the Grand Slams, his best results are reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open (2023) and the French Open (2023).

Known for his counter-punching game, Nishioka compensates for his size with exceptional quickness and footwork. He is noted for his ability to redirect hard shots with his two-handed backhand and for using angles to his advantage.

• Weight 141 lbs (64kg)
• Height 5’7″ (170cm)
• Turned pro 2014

• Country Japan 
• Plays Left-Handed, Two-Handed Backhand
• Coach Christian Zahalka

Nishioka’s racquet specs

I have seen pro players use decently chunky static weights with low swing weights before and this is another one of those.

Strung with Babolat VS Touch 1.30 mains and Yonex Poly Tour Pro 1.25 crosses it weighs 337g, 31 cm balance, and 320 SW were the specs reported by Bruno, who owns his racquet. 320 is one of the lower swing weights I’ve seen from high-ranked pro players. I don’t know tension of the strings, but I assume he doesn’t string too high considering the low mass in the head of the racquet.

I am generally also a fan of heavier static weight, low head-light balance racquets. But I prefer a higher swing weight :)

Follow Nishioka

You can follow Yoshihito Nishioka more on his Youtube channel or via his X profile.