Babolat unveils new Pure Drive at US Open

Babolat has launched a 2021 edition of its famous Pure Drive, a stick dearly loved by recreational, junior and pro players alike.

It feels as comfortable and user-friendly as previous Pure Drive's, but with a little more effortless pop on the ball—a welcome change for taking your game to the next level. There's improved control, especially at the net, and less vibration at contact which helps with overall feel.

Versions of the frame have been wielded at the US Open by the likes of Amanda Anisimova, Yulia Putintseva, Karolina Pliskova, Garbine Muguruza, Kim Clijsters and Sofia Kenin.

With a huge change not welcome by its huge fan base, Babolat has introduced minor tweaks.

1

The frame now has a High Torsional Rigidity System for better stability and energy return, meaning more explosivity when you're going for winners.

2

A thin viscoelastic rubber called SMAC has been extended into the shaft of the racquet to disperse vibrations even more than in the 2018 Pure Drive.

3

The signature blue aesthetics has deeper shades of blue and black instead of white, as well as a longer bumper guard.

The Specs: 10.6 oz (unstrung weight), 100 sq. in (head size), 320 mm (balance), 16x19 (string pattern)

The new Pure Drive comes in at $229 and will be on sale Sept. 24.