Rafael Nadal’s New Babolat AeroPro2 Bag

Here we have some exclusive photos of Rafael Nadal’s new Babolat AeroPro bag. No word yet on pricing but we expect it to be along the same lines as his old bag which is available here on Tennis Warehouse for $84.95.

Tsonga Using Babolat Aero Pro Drive GT in Melbourne

Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who is participating in the AAMI Kooyong Classic in Melbourne, recently unveiled his new Babolat Aero Pro Drive GT.

The racket is currently endorsed by world No. 2 Rafael Nadal, who also began using the racket to start the season.

The racket specifications mirror the lines predecessor—the Aero Pro Drive Cortex—with 100 sq. in. of hitting area, and an unstrung weight of 11.3 oz/32o g.

The 2010 model will feature tungsten, a lighter composite material that enables faster swing speeds.

Release date for the frame will be mid February.

Tsonga Signs With Babolat for 2010

It was announced today that Frenchman and current world No. 10 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga has signed a new racket deal with French manufacturer Babolat.

Tsonga, who was previously signed to Wilson rackets, will debut his Babolat frame at next month’s Australian Open.

Eric Babolat, President and General Director of Babolot had this to say about the acquisition of Tsonga.

“Because we are a french marker who competes amongst worldwide leaders in racquets and tennis string, we are particularly proud to welcome a french player of the Top 10 in the world. We have a community of a same (similiar) competitive spirit and a same (similiar) passion. Our values will bring us closer.”

Tsonga’s career highlights have included reaching the finals in Australia (2008) and winning the Paris Masters 1000 event in 2008.

Nadal’s New Babolat Racket Live Shots

Marshredder over at the Tennis Warehouse forums has posted new images of Rafa’s 2010 racket the Aero Pro Drive with Tungsten. Check out the shots below and if you want to see the full thread over at Tennis Warehouse just click here.

Rafa Nadal’s New Babolat AeroPro Drive GT Racket For 2010

We apologize in advance that we don’t have a larger image for you or more details about Nadal’s new Babolat racket.  The new racket, slated to be in Rafa’s hands in the upcoming Australian Open, will feature roughly the same specs as his current racket with the addition of tungsten.  We will have more info in the coming weeks so check back for details.

Roddick Staying With Lacoste Until 2013

We reported here in August that Roddick was said to be switching from Lacoste clothing to Babolat apparel in 2010. But it seems that when the clock struck 12, Lacoste came up with a better offer than its rival French brand.

Babolat, whose clothing line is quite popular in Europe and South America, was looking to penetrate into the North American market with the strength of Roddick’s persona.

The new deal announced today has Andy signed with the French brand until the end of the 2013 season, though financial details have not been disclosed as of yet.

Lacoste CEO Christophe Chenut said Roddick brings “his human dimension” to the company.

“Andy will continue to be a major ambassador for the crocodile, thanks to his natural elegance, thanks to his fair play and smile,” Chenut said.

source: here

Roddick To Wear Babolat Clothing In 2010

Toronto—It has been rumored that American tennis ace Andy Roddick will change clothing sponsors at the beginning of the 2010 season. Roddick’s current sponsorship with Lacoste is set to run out by years end. Team Roddick has yet to confirm the American will wear full Babolat clothing and shoes for the remainder of his career, however the two parties are in talks and are coming to an agreement.

The move for Roddick comes as a logical choice. He has grown up using Babolat products and is currently the face of the brand in North America.

The move on Babolat’s end makes sense as well. The French tennis manufacture currently does not have any clothing market share in North America, and will look to ignite their appearl sales going forward.

Babolat’s marketing strategy going forward will be to sign top ranked junior players from an early age, before stardom, in order to ensure their commitment to the company.

Roddick’s current Babolat contract has the American using the companies rackets, strings and shoes. If the deal goes through, he will receive his own custom made line, and it will be available come spring time in North America.

Stay tuned for further updates.

Babolat 09/10 Racquet+Clothing Catalogue

Calling all the equipment addicts and more specifically the Babolat lovers. We have the complete racquet and clothing catalogues for 2009/2010. Definitely some interesting stuff here. There is some pics of the new Gonzo racket, Roddick’s cool looking shoes for next year and even what seems to be a Michael Jackson inspired jacket (whaa?). You have to hand it to be Babolat. They went from relative obscurity to one of the biggest brands in tennis. Click on the thumbnails below to see full size image. What do you guys think of their new stuff?