Used racket red flags
Check the frame before you negotiate the price.
Ask for these photographs
- Bumper from above, with the edge wear in focus.
- Both sides of the hoop, including chips and scrapes.
- Inside and outside of the throat.
- Grommets, especially at tie-off holes.
- Grip butt, cap and model markings.
Walk away from structural doubt
Cracks, a distorted hoop, exposed damaged fibres or an unexplained repair need more than a cosmetic grade. If the seller will not provide clear photographs, pass. An A grade does not prove authenticity.
Price the work first
Add a restring, grip, bumper and grommets where needed. Confirm replacement parts are available for that exact generation. Compare the ready-to-play used cost against a dated new quote.
The Tennis Shop editorial · Page updated 6 October 2026 · Method: published specifications and dated retailer records. No on-court play-test. Method and corrections →