If you’ve watched Carlos Alcaraz blast winners across the court, you may have wondered: “What racket is he swinging?” And naturally: “How much does one cost?” Alcaraz’s racket choice gives a peek into his game-style, and the cost tells us about premium gear at the pro level. Let’s break it down.
🎾 The Racket Model He Uses
Alcaraz uses a version of the Babolat Pure Aero 98. According to expert gear breakdowns:
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The frame specs: 98 sq in head size, 27 in length, and unstrung weight around 305 g.
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The model is listed as the “Pure Aero 98” (sometimes a pro-stock variant) in his endorsement equipment.
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It’s a spin-friendly, power-capable racquet built for modern aggressive baseline play.
So when you see Alcaraz launching ripping forehands or heavy backhands, you’re seeing the result of this racquet’s mix of control + spin + feel.
💰 How Much Does It Cost?
Now let’s talk money — how much you’d spend if you wanted the same model.
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On general tennis-gear retail sites, the Pure Aero 98 is listed for around £197.99 (UK) for “frame only” versions. Tennisnuts.com
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Converting roughly, you’d expect a North American retail price of around US $250–$300 (though pricing varies) for a consumer version.
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For pro-stock or customised versions (the kind Alcaraz uses), the cost is higher—especially factoring in specifications like added weight, custom strings, and personal setup.
So if you’re buying a ready-to-play version of his model, expect maybe US $250–$350. If you want a pro-level custom version like his, it could cost considerably more (plus stringing/setup labour).
📌 Why the Price Varies
The cost of Carlos Alcaraz’s racquet isn’t as simple as checking a retail website. Several factors influence the price of his specific setup, and understanding these differences helps explain why a professional player’s equipment often costs far more than what you’ll find at your local tennis shop.
1. Consumer vs. Pro-Stock Frames
Alcaraz doesn’t use the exact off-the-shelf Babolat Pure Aero 98 you can buy online.
Pro-stock racquets are special frames made exclusively for professionals. They often include:
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Slightly different layups (materials inside the frame)
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Modified stiffness for more control or feel
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Unique balance points
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Reinforced durability for heavy hitting
These pro-stock versions are produced in limited quantities and are not available to the public, which naturally raises their value.
2. Custom Player Setup
Even after Alcaraz receives his pro-stock frames, they undergo additional fine-tuning:
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Added lead or tungsten tape to adjust swingweight
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Handle moulding to match his exact grip shape
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Personal string pattern and tension
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Balance point adjustments for more spin or stability
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Matching multiple racquets so every frame feels identical
Each layer of customization makes the racquet more precise — and more expensive. What you’re paying for is perfect replication, something recreational players rarely need but pros rely on.
3. Limited Edition, Tour-Exclusive Branding
Top players often receive special colours, early-release cosmetics, or premium finishes that never hit retail shelves.
If Alcaraz uses a:
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Tour-only paint job
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Limited early-release model
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Custom colourway designed for a specific Grand Slam
…that uniqueness adds a premium in the collector’s market. Fans love owning replicas of “the real thing,” and rarity drives prices up.
4. Location, Taxes, and Import Costs
Tennis gear prices vary globally. Europe, the US, and Asia all have different:
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VAT/import taxes
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Shipping costs
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Retail markups
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Supply limitations
A Pure Aero 98 that sells for £197.99 in the UK might cost $285 in the US or over $350 in smaller markets. Add custom stringing, grips, and lead tape, and the total increases even more.
🔍 What This Tells You as a Fan or Aspiring Player
Understanding Alcaraz’s racquet setup is exciting — but it also highlights important lessons for anyone playing the sport.
1. You Don’t Need the Exact Pro Version to Play Well
Alcaraz’s racquet is fine-tuned for tour-level power, timing, and physical strength. Most club players will perform better with the standard retail Pure Aero 98, which is easier to maneuver and more forgiving.
His pro-stock frame is built for his:
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Specific swing speed
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Elite timing
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High topspin generation
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Heavy ball-striking
Unless you play at a similar intensity, the retail model will likely suit you better.
2. Choose a Frame That Matches Your Playing Style
The Pure Aero 98 is perfect for:
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Aggressive baseliners
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Players who generate heavy topspin
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Those who like to dictate rallies
If you prefer counterpunching, flatter strokes, or defensive play, another frame might match your game more naturally.
Your racquet should complement your strengths — not copy someone else’s.
3. Investment vs. Performance Return
It’s tempting to think the most expensive racquet will make you play better, but the truth is:
The difference between a $250 retail racquet and a $1,000 pro-stock racquet is much smaller than you’d expect.
You’ll see more noticeable improvement by:
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Taking a few lessons
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Using the right strings
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Finding the correct tension
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Matching grip size and weight to your comfort
This is where real performance gains come from.
4. Strings + Tension Matter Just as Much as the Frame
Many fans don’t realise it, but strings contribute 50% or more of how a racquet feels.
Alcaraz’s setup includes:
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A specific string type
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A custom tension
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Professional stringing quality
Even if you buy the same racquet, using the wrong strings can make it feel nothing like what he uses on tour.
Experiment with:
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Different tensions for more control or power
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Hybrid setups (poly + multifilament)
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String gauges to suit your game
You might unlock performance improvements without spending extra on a pro-level frame.
🧭 Final Thoughts
In summary: Carlos Alcaraz uses a Babolat Pure Aero 98 racquet—one of the top frames in tennis. For you, a retail version could cost around US $250–$300, while a pro-level custom version may cost significantly more.
If you’re a fan or club player, choose what makes sense: buy what fits your game and budget. You don’t have to spend top-pro money to play your best.
