Q.  Do tennis racquets have a limited lifespan, whether due to the frame beginning to flex more than usual or whatever. I've been using my trusty Wilson ProStaff 6.0s for probably seven or eight years now, and while I still love them dearly, I sometimes wonder whether they are at the end of their lives (if not well past it!).
-Nicky Gonzalez, Manila, Philippines

A.  Experts believe that after four years, if you play frequently, your racquet will have seen better days. Every time you hit the ball, the thousands of graphite fibers - the basic building block of a frame - deform and crack. Eventually those fibers weaken, causing a loss of stiffness and control. Re-stringing your racquet also puts stress on the fibers. Some players note that their racquet eventually begins to feel "softer." So, long story short, your racquet, at 7-8 years old, is probably in need of retirement. You might want to check out the new Wilson Pro Staff 6.1.

-James Martin