For the most recent installment, Babolat released a special capsule called the Pure Aero Rafa collection. One of the frames—the Origin—has specs and technologies that most closely resemble Nadal’s own personal frame. The racquet is stiffer and heavier than the standard Pure Aero, with a mammoth 370ish swingweight. It’s a beast to play with and unlike virtually anything used by current pros.
Even with Nadal retiring, the Aero franchise remains in good hands. Numerous top players, including Carlos Alcaraz, are using the Pure Aero 98, a newer model in the family. Perhaps it’s better that way. Let the next generation of champions make their reputation with their own equipment. Rafa’s Aero is spoken for.
