on January 31, 2026
Every tennis player has a natural way of playing the game. Some thrive on heavy groundstrokes, others rely on consistency and defense, while some prefer to attack the net whenever possible. Understanding your playing style is one of the smartest ways to choose the right racquet and string setup.
At Racquet Vault, we help players match their equipment to how they actually play, not how they think they should play. Below are the most common tennis playing styles and how each one benefits from specific racquet and string characteristics.
Aggressive Baseliner
This is the most common style in modern tennis. Aggressive baseliners control points from the back of the court using powerful, topspin-heavy groundstrokes and sharp angles. The goal is to push opponents back, open the court, and finish points with pace.
Key traits:
- Heavy topspin forehands and backhands
- Plays closely to the baseline
- Looks to dictate rallies
What this player needs from their equipment:
- Spin-friendly racquet patterns
- Frames that allow fast racquet-head speed
- Strings that enhance snapback and control
Recommended setup:
- Racquet type: Spin-oriented frames
Ex. Babolat Pure Aero, Dunlop SX 300, Yonex VCORE 98
- Strings: Co-polyester strings for control and spin
- Typical tension: ~50–55 lbs
This setup helps aggressive players swing big while keeping the ball inside the lines.
Counterpuncher
Counterpunchers thrive on consistency, movement, and patience. They absorb pace, extend rallies, and force errors while waiting for the right opportunity to attack. This style demands endurance and comfort from equipment.
Key traits:
- Excellent defense and court coverage
- Longer rallies
- Strong return of serve
What this player needs from their equipment:
- Extra power from the racquet
- Stability on off-centre hits
- Comfort to reduce fatigue over long points
Recommended setup:
- Racquet type: Power-oriented or stable frames
Ex. Babolat Pure Drive, Yonex EZONE, Wilson Ultra 100
- Strings: Multifilament or hybrid setups for comfort and depth
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Typical tension:
- Co-poly: ~50–55 lbs
- Multifilament or gut: ~55–60 lbs
This setup helps counterpunchers stay aggressive without overworking their bodies.
All-Court Player
All-court players are adaptable. They’re comfortable rallying from the baseline, transitioning forward, and finishing points at the net. Versatility is the name of the game.
Key traits:
- Balanced offense and defense
- Confident volleys and approach shots
- Tactical flexibility
What this player needs from their equipment:
- Balanced racquets with no extreme bias
- Predictable response across all shots
- Strings that blend power, control, and feel
Recommended setup:
- Racquet type: Versatile, all-around frames
Ex. Wilson Clash 100, Head Speed MP Legend, Babolat Pure Strike Team
- Strings: Hybrid setups (poly + multi or gut)
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Typical tension:
- Co-poly: ~50–55 lbs
- Multifilament or gut: ~55–60 lbs
This setup allows all-court players to adjust their game without changing equipment.
Serve-and-Volley Player
Though less common today, serve-and-volley remains effective, especially in doubles. These players rely on strong serving, quick reflexes, and crisp net play.
Key traits:
- Aggressive serving
- Frequent net approaches
- Emphasis on touch and precision
What this player needs from their equipment:
- Control-oriented racquets
- Excellent feel at the net
- Strings that enhance touch and feedback
Recommended setup:
- Racquet type: Control-focused frames
Ex. Wilson Pro Staff 97, Babolat Pure Strike 100, Yonex VCORE 98L
- Strings: Multifilament, synthetic gut, or gut hybrids
- Typical tension: ~55–60 lbs
This setup supports accurate placement and confident volleying under pressure.
One Style… or a Blend?
Very few players fit perfectly into just one category. Most players lean toward a dominant style while borrowing elements from others. That’s why many modern racquets are designed to blend power, spin, and control.
Understanding your primary tendencies helps narrow your options and ensures your equipment enhances your strengths instead of working against them.
Need Help Dialing In Your Setup?
Choosing the right racquet and string combination can elevate your game without changing your technique. At Racquet Vault, our team helps players of all levels find gear that truly fits their style.
Stop by in-store or reach out to our team. We’ll help you build a setup that supports how you play tennis.
