Wilson’s iconic Blade series updates to version 8 for 2021! The Blade 98 (16x19) v8 pairs a captivating design with a new layup to better accommodate the more modern, vertical swing path commonly used by competitive players. Wilson’s all-new version 8 Blade’s headline innovation FORTYFIVE, manages to increase both the flexibility and stability of the frame to lend supreme feel for the ball on every shot. Still characterized by its superior presence in the hands of the best players in the world, this evolution of Blade rewards aggressive, precise ball-strikers with a top-tier blend of connected-to-the-ball feel, torsional stability, and color-shifting design to wow teammates and opponents alike. Another great update to the Blade v8 includes DirectConnect in which Wilson extends the carbon fiber handle to connect directly to the end cap for improved feel and enhanced torsional stability. Wilson also includes “Top Grip Taper” which provides a better feel for top-hand grip placement. Wilson continues the use of a Braided Graphite + Basalt composition improves the flex of the racquet to produce enhanced feel and control. Parallel Drilling provides a consistent, more forgiving string bed response. The Ergonomic End Cap helps yield improved comfort and playability. Overall, the Blade 98 (16x19) v8 features that 98 square-inch head, with a comfortable 11.3 ounce-strung weight to go with a more opened 16x19 string pattern -- all adding up to that traditional feeling racquet tailored towards that advanced player that places a premium on control & feel.