Babolat Contact 2023

Introduction

The Babolat Contact 2023 is a round, medium-soft racket for players who value control and comfort over power.

Shape & Balance

The round shape gives you a larger head but a lower balance point. This makes the racket head-heavy feel less pronounced, promoting control over power.

The balance shifts toward the handle, which helps with stability on off-center hits. It's a forgiving shape for placement shots.

Grip

The standard grip is comfortable for most hand sizes. The handle feels solid, not too thick or thin.

Over a long match, the medium-soft feel reduces fatigue in the hand. You won't get as much vibration feedback, which keeps the hand fresh.

Power & Control

With a power rating of 5/10, this is a low-power racket. You need a full swing to get depth on your shots.

The control rating is also 5/10, which is surprising for a round racket. It doesn't channel shots as precisely as some other round options. You have to be accurate yourself.

Comfort & Speed

Comfort is the strong suit. The medium-soft EVA core and fiberglass face absorb shock well, so your arm stays happy.

Speed is average—maneuverability is 6.1/10. It's not sluggish, but it's not a fast-twitch weapon. Quick volleys need extra effort.

Materials & Durability

The frame is a mix of carbon and fiberglass, which adds durability without heavy stiffness. It should handle normal wear fine.

The faces are fiberglass, which is softer and less rigid than carbon. This contributes to the muted feel but might ding easier on hard impacts. EVA foam core gives a consistent response over time.

Analysis

The Contact 2023 is a round racket that plays on the softer side. Its low power rating means you'll need to generate pace yourself. The control score is also low, which is unusual for a round shape. This racket isn't about crushing the ball; it's about placement and consistency.

The rebound rating is similarly low, so the ball doesn't bounce off the face as lively. You get a duller feel at impact, which some players like for touch shots. The medium-soft feel absorbs a lot of vibration, making it forgiving on the arm.

Maneuverability is middling, so it's not the fastest racket through the air. The low sweet spot rating means off-center hits will feel unstable. You need to be a decent player to consistently hit the sweet zone.

If you're an aggressive player who wants easy power, look elsewhere. This racket suits defenders and those who build points patiently. It's also a decent option for players with elbow issues, given the soft feel.