Wilson has just today dropped a new addition to the ever-popular Blade family: the Blade 98 (16×19) V9 Fighter Edition, co-designed with world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka.
The Blade 98 has long been a staple for attacking baseliners who value feel, precision and control but still want enough pop to finish points aggressively. The new Fighter Edition doesn’t alter the core DNA of the V9, so you still get that classic Blade blend of stability and connection to the ball, but the cosmetics and concepts are all new.
Find the Fighter Edition here at the Wilson official website.
Design and Inspiration
Sabalenka’s influence is clear. The design features a flame-inspired design, to mirror Sabalenka’s own fearless game and “channels your inner FIGHTER”.
Specs and Playability
The 16×19 string pattern remains the go-to choice for players who want a lively response and easier access to spin compared to the tighter 18×20 version. With the V9 updates, slightly softer feel and improved stability thanks to Wilson’s DirectConnect technology, the racquet is already one of the most versatile in the Blade lineup.
From my hit, the racquet still rewards clean ball-striking. The pocketing is there, the response is connected, and the stability through contact feels even more solid compared to older Blades. It doesn’t suddenly turn into a rocket launcher (it’s still a Blade )but it gives you that extra spin window and forgiveness that aggressive players appreciate.
More details
Head (sq cm) 632
Head (sq in) 98
Length (cm) 68.58
Length (in) 27
String Pattern 16X19
Strung balance (cm) 33
Strung weight (grams) 321
Strung weight (ounces) 11.32
Taper System (mm) 20.6
Unstrung balance (cm) 32
Unstrung weight (grams) 305
Unstrung weight (ounces) 10.76
Wilson knows the Blade doesn’t need radical changes, it’s one of the best-selling performance frames for a reason. What the Fighter Edition does is add character and inspiration, connecting the racquet more directly to a player who embodies the Blade philosophy: controlled aggression.
Where to buy it?
To purchase this limited edition (Fighter Edition) racquet, head over to the Wilson official website. You might also find it shortly at below tennis shops:
- Tennis Warehouse (US, Canada)
- Tennis Warehouse Europe (10% off with code TNERD10) – Available for €290
- Tennis Only (AU)
- Racketspecialisten (Sweden)
- Tennis Point (UK): (Germany, Spain, Italy, France).
H22 mold?
No, regular Blade 98
Hi,
Do you know how many copies of this blade are limited to?
Thanks
Hi, I think they said 1000 racquets.
When is the Wilson Blade Fighter Edition going to be available for purchase. I need a 100 or higher but really want this racket. Will even take a 98 if that is only option.
They are releasing it in specific markets for the Australian Open: Australia, China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. The rest have to wait a bit.