Legendary Equipment: Roger Federer unveils groundbreaking RF Collection by Wilson

WATCH: Our full interview with Roger Federer (21:48) ⤴️

At different times he has switched apparel brands. Same goes for his footwear. But the one constant during Roger Federer’s illustrious tennis career has been his Wilson racquet. He came on tour with the Pro Staff 85, made his reputation with the Pro Staff 90, before writing his closing chapters with his own signature frame, the RF97 Autograph. Now, launching on his birthday, comes the next phase of Federer’s racquet odyssey: the RF Collection.

“It's a big honor for me to have an RF franchise at Wilson,” Federer told Tennis Channel's Steve Weissman in an interview you can watch above. “I've been with them for so, so long, ever since I played by tournament at 8 years old.”

👉 The RF Collection is now available for purchase at Tennis Shop powered by Tennis Point. Click here, or scan the QR code below to view the entire product line.

The origin for this brand-new franchise came in 2022. Federer was rehabbing his knee and approached Wilson about a new racquet for his remaining time on tour. He felt the RF97 Autograph made his backhand more dependable, but slowed down his forehand compared to the PS 90. He was intrigued by the trend among his younger peers of lighter frames that enable more racquet head speed and spin. He wanted something that did likewise, while still allowing him to play his attacking, all-court style. And, of course, it had to retain that familiar Pro Staff feel.

Wilson came up with a new mold and testing was progressing nicely. Unfortunately, it became apparent that Federer’s knee was never going to return to tour-ready status. Wilson figured it was the end of the project, but Federer wanted to continue and bring the racquet to market. Just three days after his retirement match at Laver Cup, he was back on the court in Switzerland demoing prototypes. After extensive scrutiny and refinement, the RF 01 was born. It’s the first generation in this collection; along with his signature On shoes, it keeps Federer a major name in the tennis equipment space.

“I've always called it the extension of your arm,” Federer says of a tennis racquet. “I think it's a great evolution of what we've seen in the past.”

There are three models in the RF line all with the same head size (98 sq. in.), dual taper beam (22/24/23.2 mm) and string pattern (16x19): the RF 01 Pro, the RF 01 and the RF 01 Future. (Click on the links to purchase at Tennis Shop powered by Tennis Point.) They are aimed at three types of players:

• RF 01 Pro ($299): This is the racquet that most closely resembles Federer’s own personal frame. It’s 20g lighter and more user-friendly than his previous RF97 Autograph, but it still carries plenty of weight (320g) and requires proficient strokes.
• RF 01 ($279): Also designed for accomplished players, the lower weight (300g) makes it more accessible than the Pro. It also has a softer, more arm-friendly flex.
• RF 01 Future ($259): Targeted at skilled younger players, the lighter weight (280g) and adjusted balance point compared to the other models offer greater comfort and power.

There are also several new innovations in the racquets:

• SABR Frame Design incorporates a dual taper beam for greater aerodynamics. Its name (Sneak Attack By Roger) is a nod to Federer’s kamikaze-style return of serve tactic, as well as his willingness to alter his equipment so late in his career.
• Glide Guard is a more integrated bumper and grommet design that fits nearly seamlessly on the frame. It reduces air resistance and gives the racquet a sleeker appearance.
• Braided 45 Technology comes from the Pro Staff line. It enhances the racquet’s ball-pocketing, stability and feel.
• Feel Fill is a polyurethane foam injected throughout the frame. Its vibration-dampening qualities also improve the frame’s feel.

The racquet has design elements that draw inspiration from Federer including the now iconic RF logo along the shaft and butt cap, and a unique peak design representing the mountains of his native Switzerland. Additionally, the line also features matching bag options, replacement grips, and RF dampener.