oLLie is actually kinda right. you don't need your wrist to generate top spin. Older players (and by older I mean those who were taught the classic eastern grip, squared stance form) can generate topspin exactly in the way he described. However, in order to get the insane amount of topspin that most of the younger tour players have, a wristy stroke is mandatory. I have a topspin heavy shot that developed b/c I was really short when I was younger, thus needed the spin to clear the net. I use a light (but head heavy), oversized Prince Thunderlite. I've played since I was 8 (now 19), played for high school (got all the way to the state quarterfinals senior year
), and play club tennis in college. So, I'd like to think I have a really good grasp on tennis in general.
Anyways, to answer your question, choosing a racquet really depends on your playing style. Light and Heavy racquets each have their benefits, but they're suited for different playing styles. Players with short, compact strokes should get a light, oversized racquet b/c it gives them the power they need and the lightness of the head allows them to accelerate the racquet adequately, else it'd be like swinging a bat. Players with fast, loopy shots should get a heavier, smaller head racquet b/c since they can swing it harder, power racquet would just launch balls to the fence each time.
You're right BlipBlop- lighter racquets provide a heckuva lot more control, and heavier racquets provide power. However, larger heavier racquets allow more margin of error if you're just trying to hit the ball.
Oh, more info on playing styles- Sampras uses that ungodly heavy pro staff 6.0 b/c its weight gives him a lot more control on volleys, which is a big part of his game. I think his headsize is actually smaller than 95 sq. inches too. However, look at Agassi's Head Ti Fire- its light, and oversized (I think). This gives him more control on grounds strokes, which is good for his baseline game.
Ok, now for racquet suggestions- You really have to go demo them to see which fits your style. Sports Authority, Dick's Sporting Goods, pro shops, and smaller sports stores all have racquets that you can demo. Head, Wilson, and Prince are the biggest names out there. The Head TI series are awesome, as well as the Prince Triple Threat line. I've never really liked wilson ever since they had their gimmicky "Rollers", but you can check them out. Other companies you can check out- Babolat, and Yonex. Tons of high school and college players I know swear by Babolat racquets, and half of the women's and men's varsity teams use it.
Hope some of this helps. I know I rambled on forever.
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