Head Radical Pro
The quintessential control racket that delivers surgical precision for players who value placement over power.
The Head Radical Pro 2024 is a masterpiece of control-oriented engineering, designed for the tactician who wins points through precision rather than power. With an impressive 9.4 control rating, this racket represents Head's commitment to serving players who prioritize placement, spin variation, and consistent depth. The round shape and low balance point create a racket that responds instantly to your commands, making it ideal for players who have developed solid technique and want equipment that rewards finesse. At just €152, down from €280, this represents exceptional value for a premium control racket.
Key Features
- • Optimum Balance Point technology for enhanced maneuverability
- • Smart Bridge construction for improved frame stability
- • Power Foam core with soft EVA for exceptional touch
- • Comfort Grip System for reduced vibration transmission
- • Tailored Frame Geometry optimized for control players
Pros
- Very good control (8.6/10) for accurate shot-making
- Strong rebound characteristics (8.5/10) enhance gameplay speed
- Good maneuverability (8.5/10) enables swift movements
- Round shape provides excellent balance and consistency
- Premium carbon construction ensures durability and performance longevity
Cons
- Moderate power (7.7/10) requires good technique for strong shots
- Moderate sweet spot size (7.9/10) less forgiving on off-center hits
- Round shape typically offers less power than diamond alternatives
Design Philosophy
Control-First Engineering
Head designed the Radical Pro with a singular focus: giving players absolute command over ball placement. The round shape distributes weight evenly, creating a low balance point that brings the sweet spot closer to your hand. This geometry provides exceptional feel and allows for minute adjustments in racket face angle, translating to millimeter-perfect placement. The soft EVA core absorbs ball impact gradually, giving you extended contact time to impart spin and direction.
Smart Material Selection
The combination of fiberglass face and soft EVA core creates a forgiving yet precise hitting surface. Fiberglass flexes more than carbon, providing additional dwell time and making it easier to control ball placement. The carbon fiber frame adds just enough stiffness to maintain structural integrity without sacrificing the soft, connected feel that control players crave.
On-Court Performance
Precision Placement
The Radical Pro excels at hitting targets. Whether you're trying to thread a passing shot down the line, drop a short ball just over the net, or place a deep lob to the back corner, this racket delivers. The 9.4 control rating isn't just a number—you'll feel it in every shot as the ball goes exactly where you aimed. Players transitioning from tennis rackets will appreciate the similar feel and responsiveness.
Defensive Capabilities
With 8.7 maneuverability and a 9.0 sweet spot, the Radical Pro is exceptional in defensive situations. Quick reflex volleys, low retrievals, and emergency gets are all handled with aplomb. The soft touch helps absorb pace from opponent smashes, giving you time to reset and construct your next point. This racket turns defense into offense by allowing you to place balls precisely even under pressure.
Spin Generation
The extended dwell time from the soft EVA core makes generating spin straightforward. Topspin drives, slice backhands, and kick serves all come naturally. The control-oriented design means your spin will be consistent and predictable, allowing you to build points methodically and move opponents around the court.
Player Compatibility
Ideal User Profile
The Radical Pro is perfect for players who have developed consistent technique and want to add tactical sophistication to their game. If you enjoy long rallies, constructing points, and exploiting opponent weaknesses through placement rather than power, this is your racket. It's particularly well-suited to former tennis players who are accustomed to control-oriented rackets.
Learning Curve
Intermediate players will find this racket helps improve their shot-making by providing clear feedback and rewarding proper technique. Advanced players will appreciate the surgical precision for executing complex tactical plans. Beginners might find the lower power output challenging, as it requires sound fundamentals to generate adequate pace.
Conclusion
The Head Radical Pro 2024 is the ideal weapon for intermediate to advanced players who have mastered the fundamentals and want to elevate their tactical game. While it won't overpower opponents, it will help you outthink them with precise placement, varied spin, and consistent depth. The generous sweet spot and excellent maneuverability make it forgiving enough for intermediates while offering the precision that advanced players demand.
