Fire Starter: How Aryna Sabalenka Custom-Designed Her US Open Racket
See how Aryna's relentless spirit and vision of a racket ablaze resulted in the limited "Fighter Edition" Blade.
Heat Rises. So Does She.
What racket does Aryna Sabalenka use? For the 2025 US Open, the answer is simple — and very, very hot.
Introducing the Blade 98 v9 “Fighter Edition” — a custom-built, flame-wrapped tennis racket co-designed by one of tennis’ fiercest competitors. Made for the fight. Built to conquer. This extremely limited drop isn’t just a racket. It’s her fire, visualized.
Only 1,000 units globally. The weapon of choice for tennis’ hardest-hitting player.
Play With Fire: Behind the Design
It started in the California desert. During our annual Indian Wells photoshoot, we sat down with Aryna Sabalenka and her team to discuss an idea Aryna had - something bold, raw, and personal for her 2025 US Open campaign.
Aryna came in clear: “I want to play with fire.”
After several rounds of creative collaboration, the result was undeniable:
🔥 A flame-themed Blade celebrating her inner fire and fighting spirit
🔥 A design inspired by strength, energy, and heat under pressure
🔥 A racket built not just to win, but to dominate
What Racket Is Aryna Sabalenka Using at the US Open?
Aryna Sabalenka is using the Wilson Blade 98 v9 Fighter Edition at the 2025 US Open — a frame co-developed to reflect her identity, her style, and her spirit.
Key Specs:
Model: Blade 98 v9
Edition: Fighter
Units: 1,000 Worldwide
Available at: Wilson.com, Wilson’s US Open store, and select retailers.
"Fueled by fire, Aryna never backs down from a fight."
Design Features: Fire. Fighter.
This isn’t just a racket. It’s a statement.
Every visual element of the Blade v9 Fighter Edition was crafted to reflect Aryna Sabalenka’s spirit — not just how she plays, but how she lives.
🔥 Flame Fade Finish
The frame bursts from deep golden brown into a fiery blue, purple, pink and yellow — capturing the hottest part of the flame because when the match gets tighter, Aryna hits harder.
🐅 Roaring Tiger Icon
Coiled around the throat of the racket is a roaring tiger — a visual pulled straight from Aryna’s personal story. On her left forearm, Sabalenka sports a tiger tattoo, a symbol of strength, instinct, and fearlessness. For her, it’s a daily reminder to stay aggressive and bold — and now it lives on her racket too.
The roaring tiger isn’t just a graphic. It’s a link between her identity and her tools. From ink to impact.
🧱 Details with Bite
No fluff. No filler. Just high-impact visuals and fierce symbolism. This is the Fighter — built for bold players who bring heat to the court.
Fire makes the fighter. And this racket burns bright.
Super Tour Bag: All Heart. All Heat.
Though not for sale, Sabalenka’s custom Super Tour Red 15PK Bag completes the look. It features tiger-stripe visuals, deep red finishes, and for the first time, a transparent side panel to highlight the racket aflame inside.
All heart. All heat.
Customize Your Own Blade Racket
Where can I customize the design of my tennis racket?
Right here:
Inspired by Aryna’s fire? Want to play your own way? The Wilson Racket Customizer lets you design a racket as unique as your game.
🎨 Pick your base color— matte or gloss
🔥 Design every detail — frame, grip, grommets
🖊 Add your name or mantra—flags and emojis also available
⚙️ Built for performance. Finished with personality.
Why This Drop Matters
This isn't just a new cosmetic. It's a shift in the way Wilson collaborates with athletes who define the future of our sport.
Aryna was involved from start to finish — in concept, in visuals, in purpose. This isn’t just her racket. It’s her mindset, co-engineered into a limited drop for anyone who considers themselves Team Saby.
“Now we’re playing with fire.”