To that end, a pretty tight 16×19 string pattern affords dependable directional control. Combined with the tempered power level, it bolsters confidence to go after big serves and ground strokes and direct them toward tight windows. The racquet is the epitome of a straight-shooter—if you miss the shot, the error almost always feels user-generated.
The launch off the string bed is lower and doesn’t spit out topspin as naturally as some competing 98s. However, it’s quite nimble for its weight, so you can compensate somewhat with added racquet head acceleration. A springy kick serve is gettable, but it requires a loose wrist and plenty of snap up and through contact. Flatter shots and knifing slice backhands are more routine to produce and penetrate well through the court.
This playability is a near carbon copy of the outgoing model. The biggest difference is a slightly plusher, dampened feel courtesy of the additional Auxetic construction in the yoke and handle. It still has a firm, connected feel with plenty of feedback, but now arguably has a bit more pleasing and supple response.
Which benefits execution on touch and specialty shots. Being so predictable, you know just how much lift and spin to use on lobs and rollers. The firmness makes punching volleys very point-and-shoot, but there’s just enough give to hit softer drops and angles with consistency. Head promotes the Radical as being highly versatile (“Every shot. Everywhere.” is the tagline) and it certainly delivers on those all-court capabilities.
