Wall practise

If you don't have a partner, you can always play against the wall.

Helps improve your defense and reflexes in a doubles game.

On hiatus

Memo: Will be getting a new racquet soon.

Either Victor Brave Sword 10 or Kumpoo 2300.

Stay tune for the review session, although I've been doing review on Yonex racquets for free, it's time to review other high end racquets like Kumpoo or Victor.

signing out.

Super Series Masters in JB Dec 2-6 2009

The final day of Asia Badminton Championship in Johor a few months back.

Contrast to that on the Friday night, when Bao Chun Lai takes on Lee Chong Wei

A typical day of empty stadium, here Boonsak Ponsana of Thailand warming up for his game

The turn out for this masters superseries was quite low given the profile of players involved.

However, many top players from Korea, Denmark and Europe are lured in owing to the bigger price money and lack of competition from the best China players.

The Koreans Lee/Jung pocketed a big prize money of USD 42,000 and so does the Danish mixed doubles pair.

Lee Yong Dae and Jung Jae Sung, while Boe/Morgensen helped themselves to some money as well.

NIELSEN Joachim Fischer and PEDERSEN Christinna

Even the Danish WD pair of Lena Frier Kristiansen and Kamilla Rytter Juhl managed to pocket some money.

Some of the memorable incident was after defeating the Chinese MD in the semis, Matthias Boe made a silly Maori stance trying to intimidate the China pair.

But in sheer delight after winning, he threw his AT900P to the stance and a girl caught it.

Similarly in the finals in the XD, Pedersen threw her NS9900 into the stand after winning the finals.

One of the surprises is the way Wong Mew Choo of Malaysia dominating the competition and the same can be said of Malaysia's WD, Wong/Chin.

They previously have a lot of difficulty getting into the semifinals given the strength of the China squad.

Good day for Europe indeed, hope this will inspire more badminton in Europe.

Choice of a doubles racquet

Every time when people who plays doubles chooses a new racquet, question commonly ask are, which racquet is the most powerful for smash or which is the lightest racquet available?

Fortunately this isn't hard to answer. The best racquet to use is arguably a headlight racquet which is stiff/very stiff, or a headheavy/med-flex to stiff racquet.

The former is exemplified by Yonex's Ti-10 Mesh, Nanospeed 9000x/s and 9900. While the latter examples are Yonex's Armortec 900T, 800Def or Arcsaber 7. Yonex is chosen as an example as it is well known.

Why this is so? in doubles, the game is so fast that one cannot survive based on smashes alone. Control and defense are very important as well. This theory was confirmed by Tan Boon Heong who rated defense is as important as attack; hence he is using a Nanospeed 9900.

From thestar.com.my
King of smashers Boon Heong holds record

RAJES PAUL

MALAYSIAN doubles shuttler Tan Boon Heong was on a high after being hailed as the world’s hardest smasher. It was made official yesterday that Boon Heong now holds the fastest speed record for a smash at 421kph, which was recorded in the Japan Open in Tokyo last month.

The two previous fastest speeds were 332kph (Fu Haifeng of China) and 414kph (Naoki Kawamae of Japan).

“I feel proud of this recognition. It will certainly motivate me to do even better in this sport,” said Boon Heong.

“People started to notice my smashing ability when I was 17-years-old. And aware that it is one of my strong points, I spent extra hours working on it.

“It’s all about the timing in hitting a good smash. One does not have to be physically big to be a strong exponent in the stroke.

“Having a strong smash alone is not enough. It is also important to have a good defence and to complement well with the partner. Kien Keat and I still have to work in these areas.”

Mizuno Tetra Cross 700 Review

Mizuno TC700 Review
Date : 28 November 2009
Racket Type : Mizuno Tetra Cross 700
Specs : 3UG4
Flex: Extra Stiff
Balance: 290mm
Strings: Yonex BG66 Tension: 25lbs , 2 Piece Stringing
Grip: Karakal Super PU + Toalson overgrip
Technology : Isometric/oval frame, Carbon Nanotube, Tetra-Axial, Graphite-Aramid composite

First Impression: Initially , I thought that this color is a bit 'old' and traditional; comprising of grey, green and flanked by beige at 3/9 o'clock. The racquet looks unassuming but have a rather classical hybrid kind of look. For the first time I handle it, the racket feels even balance rather than headheavy. Frame shape is rather oval but is between isometric and oval. The 'T-joint' is rather thick and the flex is rather stiff.

Warm Ups: The racket indeed feels really solid. Still getting used to the timing since the shape of the frame is semi oval. But as usual, I start off with baseline to baseline shots. Clears are good, feels like a Yonex NS9000X in terms of stiffness. Racket head is stable and well balanced but I would say rather unforgiving owing to the (oval frame) smaller hitting area. Reaction time is moderately fast and the driving is ok. The racquet is stable in cutting thru the air and feels a bit 'heavy' after continous multiple overhead strokes.

Game Time: I like the feel of serving low using this racket. Flick serve is good as well. Net play is good and control is satisfactory. When comes to time reaction, I would say that this racket is adequate. Above average defense since the racquet is not that head heavy. Smashes and clears are excellent with this racquet as the extra stiffness and semi-oval shape (focusing the repulsion of the strings) are where the power comes from. Control is on par with a singles Yonex racquet like AT900P/AT700. The stiffness of the shaft plus the moderately heavy head gave this racquet very good accuracy when placing shuttles to the 4 corners of the court. However, this racquet is not as maneuverable/aerodynamic as the best headlight racquet due to the thick T-joint/thick shaft. Driving is average with this racquet.

Conclusion: The racquet is not beginner friendly as its frame is semi-oval giving a small sweetspot. I’m satisfied with it and how its made. It's a pretty unique racquet combining smaller sweetspot with an extra stiff shaft which result in excellent control, power and feel. On the plus side, it's moderately head heavy with above average handling.

Feel: 9/10
Control: 9/10
Power: 9/10
Defense: 7/10
Maneuverability: 7/10

Pros: Excellent power, control and feeling, the ideal parameters of a great singles racquet.

Cons: Price, rarity and perhaps small sweetspot. Also not the best doubles racquet owing to lower maneuverability and defence

Suitability: Intermediate/Advance attacking players. More of a singles racquet or a baseline smasher's weapon in doubles. Not suitable for beginners or weaker players

Racquet collection

Hola Mi Gente;

Current colelction: 2XAT900P, 2XGosen6900, 3XTi-10, 1XMP99

Just got a Mizuno TC700, so will write a review on the racquet.

Adios muchachos

Mentality of shots in doubles vs singles

Smashes in doubles: mostly aimed at centre court between players or the 'racquet-side' thigh area of the defender.
Smashes in singles: aimed at the sidelines/crosscourt or in desperation aimed at body.

Drops in singles: sliced/reverse sliced to the 2 corners
Drops in doubels: fake smash into centre drop

Clears in doubles: almost never but in desperation to center court
Clears in singles: always to the backhand-side

Trickshots in doubles: between the leg/behind the back return of smash
Trickshots in singles: hold and flick/hold and crosscourt

Drive in doubles: when unable to smash/aim crosscourt to surprise opponent
Drive in singles: when doing return of low serve

I list them here, I can think it but doesn't mean I can do it. :)

Yonex Muscle Power 99 Review

Just acquired a new MP99 3UG5
Strung with BG66

This is a well known racquet, popular amongst professionals and recreational players. I believed, if i didn't review this racquet, then I'm missing something...

Racquet: Yonex MP99

Flex: stiff

Balance: even balance

Strings: Yonex BG66 @ 22lbs

First impression: A well known racquet, once used by many pros including Lin Dan. The picture of the racquet speaks for itself. Unique to this racquet is the grommet system, which is different from other Yonex racquets. Ultimum titanium is used both in the frame and the shaft. Flex is rather stiff, head is standard isometric and even balance.

Warm up: I find it kind of funny when handling this racquet, feeling neither head heavy nor headlight when swung. Clears are the 1st shot that I start with, which is good. Drive and drops are good. Net plays are good as well.

Game time: I find this racquet to be an all-rounder, it can hit good smashes. Control is very good, the maneuverability is faster than head heavy racquets and defence is acceptably good. I can not find any weakness/fault in this racquet on court.

Conclusion: This is a classic racquet, excellent balance of playing attribute like control, power and feel. Can be played equally well for doubles and singles.

Power 8/10
Feel: 8/10
Control: 8/10
Defence: 8/10
Manueverability: 8/10

Pros: Classic iso Racquet, well balance racquet. Suitable for any style of play. Probably one of the best racquet when 1st introduced.

Cons: Maybe a bit fragile (owing to low recomended tension) and not easy to get used to as with most even balance racquets. Not as sexy as the younger and flashier models.

Suitability: Control, attacking, defensive and all around players. In short, all players (singles/doubles) will find this racquet to suit their game once they get used to it. Skill level: intermediate and above.

YONEX/Sunrise sports recommendation for player type:
For advanced to intermediate players looking for ultimate speed and excellent control

Yonex rating 1-5
Power 5
Control 5
Flex 5

(Ref: Yonex badminton chart)

Racquet collection

Memo.

Racquet Collection reduced to 8 racquets.

3UG5 Ti-10 Mesh (3rd Generation)x 3
3UG5 AT900P x 1
2UG5 NS9900 X 1
Gosen Roots Aermet 6900 (Boonsak Model) X 2
Carbonex 21 x 1

Planing to try Mizuno Tetracross 700.

thus 1 x Gosen 6900 and NS9900 and about to be sold.

French Open 2009

Tonight, there's a mouth watering battle between Lin Dan and Taufik Hidayat for the men's singles.

Follwed by the men's doubles battles of KKK/TBH vs MK/HS.

return of serve trick

I just played with an expert/advanced badminton player.

His return of serve is excellent kinda like the youtube video below.

I figure out that the racquet head is misleading as he sliced/push it the otherway.

Racquet collection

I hope to reduce my racquet collection after trial and error of testing racquets.

Currently my racquets:

Yonex
NS9900
Ti-10 (3rd Gen) X 2
ArcZ-Slash
AT900P
Carbonex 21

Gosen
Aermet Roots Gavun 6900 (Boonsak model) x 2

My go to racquets are 2X Gosen 6900
I found I can get more power from the smash than the extra stiff Ti-10 Mesh.
Although, I found the Ti-10 is better in defense and control.

My 2U NS9900 JP is used primary as a warm-up racquet. Too valuable to risk in a doubles game. My ArcZ-slash is use in conjunction with my Gosen 6900 and I'm loving it. The Smash is powerful and I'm begining to get the hang of the control.

My dying 2U Carbonex 21 is use for practise and to borrow friends with no racquets.

Signing out.

Lee Chong Wei made his entrance in the finals

Many kids waiting to get his pictures and adults like me hunting for his autograph ;).

We failed as security barred us and a focused Lee Chong Wei didn't obliged.

Tan Chun Seang

A professional player breaking his bond with the national team for personal reasons.

Widely reported in Malaysia and talk about in badmintoncentral.com

Reported on the 17 September 2009
"Chun Seang banned two years for quitting national squad
By RAJES PAUL
KUALA LUMPUR: Former back-up shuttler Tan Chun Seang has become the first Malaysian shuttler in a decade to face the music for quitting the national squad.
The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) coaching and training committee decided yesterday to ban Chun Seang from taking part in any international tournaments for the next two years.
A player cannot compete in international tournaments if they are not endorsed by the national body.
Last week, the 22-year-old Chun Seang ended his five-year tenure with the national back-up squad citing family problems.
Chun Seang’s decision came just days after national coach Hendrawan had dropped him from the Vietnam Open following the shuttler’s lack of quality in training sessions.
BAM president Datuk Nadzmi Mohd Salleh said that in the future such cases would be reviewed depending on the gravity of the matter.
Nadzmi added that it was time for BAM to safeguard their programme.
“We have accepted Chun Seang’s resignation. He has cited family problems. He will not get our clearance to play in any international tournaments for the next two years,” said Nadzmi.
“We do not want a player to say that he is leaving because of family problems and then, months later, we find him playing with another club.
“We are giving him time to sort out his personal problems. The door will be open to him after two years.
“The BAM have spent a lot of time, money and resources in grooming the players. It is time we review the premature exit of the players.”
Prior to Chun Seang, many players had left the BAM on their own accord, like veterans Wong Choong Hann, Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah, Chan Chong Ming-Chew Choon Eng and Gan Teik Chai-Tan Bin Shen.
“Some players have left us when they knew that their time (with the BAM) was up. At that time, we had no reason to stop them from competing in international tournaments,” said Nadzmi.
“Our reviews and actions will depend on a case-by-case basis. There can be cases when we will accept their decision without imposing any action on them.”
In the mid-90s, BAM had fined shuttlers who left the national body to join professional club Nusa Mahsuri."

Thestar.com.my

Arcsaber Z-Slash Review

Flex: stiff
Balance: 290 mm (head heavy)
Composition (Frame): CS carbon Nanostube + HM graphite
(Shaft): HM graphite + Ultra PEF
Weight/Grip size: 2U (90-94.9) G3-G5, 3U (85-89.9g) G3-G5
Technology: Ultra PEF, CS carbon Nanotube, New T-joint, New cs cap, Super HMG, new grommet system

Date : 24th September 2009
Racket Type : Yonex Arcsaber Z-Slash
Specs : 3UG5
Strings: Yonex BG66 Tension: 25lbs ,1 Piece Stringing
Stringing Machine : Pacific Stringing machine
Technology : Ultra PEF, Super HMG, CS carbon nanotube, new-T-joint, New CS cap
Grip: Yonex original grip + Toalson overgrip
Shuttle Used: Yonex AS40

First Impression: A slightly oval isometric racquet in the frame. Cacaphony of color, a mixture of laser yellow, white, red and black. The racquet is headheavy at about 290mm. The racquet has nice swing, being rather stiff. This racquet has a very slim and skinny shaft to reduce air resistance. The unique feature of this racquet is the racquet combines the features of being headheavy and fast to swing. This combination is perfect for generating a very powerful smash. Although claimed by Yonex to generate 414km/h, I would say it's quite an improvement of the Arcsaber 10 and definitely can hit a mean smash. The grommet stringing system is similar to Nanospeed 9000s/x. The frame is slightly oval.

Warm Ups: The swing of this racquet is extremely fast as it is aerodynamic. It is fantastic when playing netshots and drives. The clears are easy to excecute and smashing is just awesome. Smashing and clearing are no problem with this racquet as it is headheavy enough for the job, in fact, it feels like an Arcsaber 10 on steriods.

Game Time: Serving is good with this racquet, especially backhand serves. Flick serves and receiving service near the net are fast. Driving is excellent for both forehand and backhand. The clear is also good and so is the smash. For defense, for some reason, my wrist gets tired very fast, probably a combination of head-heavy and fast compact swing. I find I need to put more effort into repulsing smashes than a headlight racquet. Netkills are easy too with this weapon. Drops and sliced drops are excellent with this racquet, thus, the feel is great with this racquet.

Conclusion: A stiff racquet that's excellent on the attack and good in counterattacking. One of the better high end racquets produced by Yonex which combines the rare attributes of fast speed, head heaviness and control. However, unlike other Yonex racquets, this beast needs some break-in period.

Feel: 8.5/10
Control: 9.5/10
Power: 10/10
Defense: 7/10
Maneuverability: 9/10

Pros: Well made racquet and has great power and control. Aerodynamic shape means excellent maneuverability.

Cons: harder to defend than headlight racquets and price

Suitability: Skill level required, high intermediate/advanced player. For agressive hard hitters in doubles and attacking style player in singles.

YONEX/Sunrise sports recommendation for player type:
For professional players looking to break the smash barrier

Yonex rating 1-5
Power 5
Control 5
Flex 5
(Ref: Yonex badminton chart)

My Badminton racquet collection 24th September 2009

Yonex: NS8000, NS9900, ArcZ-Slash, AT900P and Ti-10

Flagship highest end Yonex racquets
NS9900, ArcZ-Slash and AT900P

My complete collection
NS8000, Ti-10 X 2, Cab21, ArcZ-Slash, Gosen Aermet 6900, AT900P, NS9900, Apacs Lethal

I can't believe that I have so much racquets.

I have used and tested all of them.

My best racquet for singles: AT900P, ArcZ-Slash and Gosen Aermet 6900
My best racquet for doubles: Ti-10, NS8000 and NS 9900
My training racquets: Cab 21 and Apacs Lethal 25

My racquet collection in August 2009

From left:
APACS Lethal 25,
APACS training 120
Yonex Nanospeed 9900
Wilson [K] Lite
Yonex Carbonex 21
Yonex Nanospeed 8000
Gosen Roots Aermet 6900 (Boonsak model)
Yonex Ti-10
Yonex Ti-10
Yonex Armortec 900 Power

Nanospeed 8000, A brief review of older model racquets

Reviewing Yonex Nanospeed 8000

Just got a hold of this racquet.

Specs: 3UG4

Flex: Extra Stiff
Balance point: 285+/-mm (evenbalance-)
Composition: Frame: HM graphite + Fullerene
Shaft: HM graphite + Fullerene
Weight: 3U (85-89) G4/G5
2U (90-95) G3/G4/G5

Feel: 8.5/10
Power: 8.5/10
control: 9/10
Maneuverability: 9.5/10
defence: 9.5/10

Conclusion: A proven racquet that was used by many professionals like Lee Chong Wei (2005-2006), Chen Hong, Xie Xingfang etc.

Pros: excellent defence, excellent for wristy players who use a lot of backhand and has enough power for smashers in doubles. Beautiful colors.

Cons: may not be sexy enough compared to newer high end models.

YONEX/Sunrise sports recommendation for player type:
For advanced players looking for speed in its play together with maximum control & new dimension power

Yonex rating 1-5
Power 5
Control 5
Flex 5
(Ref: Yonex badminton chart)

Wilson K-Lite Review

Flex: low to mid flex
Balance: 295 mm (head heavy)
Composition (Frame): [K]arophite Black
(Shaft): [K]arophite Black
Weight/Grip size: 4U- (78-82g)/G5　
Technology: [K]arophite Black, [K]ontour Joint, [K]onstruction and [K]ap

Date : 14th August2009
Racket Type : Wilson [K]-lite
Specs : 4UG5
Strings: Yonex BG66 Tension: 25lbs ,1 Piece Stringing
Stringing Machine : Pacific Stringing machine
Technology : [K]arophite Black, [K]ontour Joint, [K]onstruction and [K]ap
Grip: Yonex Aerotec grip + overgrip
Shuttle Used: Yonex AS40

First Impression: A classic isometric racquet. Solid silverish color, a mixture of light blue, white and silver. The racquet is headheavy at about 295mm. The racquet has nice swing, being rather flexible and headheavy. This racquet feels solid and well constructed. The unique feature of this racquet is the racquet combines the rare features of being very light, flexible and headheavy. This combination is perfect for a fast counterattacking doubles game.

Warm Ups: The swing of this racquet is extremely fast as it is very light (4U-). It is fantastic when playing netshots and drives. The clears are easy to excecute and smashing is non-tiring with this racquet, even though it's headheavy. Smashing and clearing are no problem with this racquet as it is headheavy enough for the job.

Game Time: Serving is good with this racquet, especially backhand serves. Flick serves and receiving service near the net are fast. Driving is excellent for both forehand and backhand. The clear is also good and so is the smash. For defense, its lightness and responsiveness gives it very high marks. Netkills are easy too with this weapon. Drops and sliced drops are okay with this racquet, thus, the feel is above average with this racquet.

Conclusion: A med-flex racquet that's excellent on the defense and good in counterattacking. One of the better [K]factor racquets produced by Wilson which combines the rare attributes of ultra light weight, head heaviness and flexible shaft.

Feel: 7/10
Control: 8/10
Power: 7.5/10
Defense: 9.5/10
Maneuverability: 9.5/10
Pros: Good driving racquet and has great defence and adequate power.
Cons: None, but violent hard hitters may prefer a stiffer racquet.
Suitability: Intermediate/Advance/professional doubles player

World championship badminton

The week long competition continues.

Major names have progress to subsequent rounds.

Biggest upset so far is the loss of Bao Chun Lai to Dicky Palyama of Holland.

Team England's instructional videos in English

Detailed process of manufacturing of shuttle cocks

Very educational video of RSL's factory in China.

Overhead swing action

The overhead shot is the most important shot in badminton.

Why?

It allows you to hit the shuttle at the highest point, by doing that you
a. will be able to take away reaction time from your opponent
b. allows greater deception
c. allows maximum power stroke, by making full use of arm extension (Lever)

Basically, all coaches will teach this shot as it is the most fundamental stroke. One can hit a drop, clear and a smash from this shot.

The overhead can be liken to a throwing action. Basically you stand on a sideway position and then 'open' up with your racquet arm. Your non-racquet arm points to the direction of the incoming shuttle, this is important for balance and follow through.

Next the sequence is the hitting action. Which can be a drop; which you lightly tap the shuttle slightly in front to force the shuttle to travel near the net.

The clear is you hit the shuttle slightly behind you so that it travels high and far.

The smash is hit with pace and with the wrist in a downward action.

This cartoon illustrates the hitting action of the overhead stroke.

Serving in Doubles

It's important in the game of doubles to tell your partner what kind of serve you are serving.

The prefered serve is the backhand serve.

GIFSoup
For example, one can serve to the 'T' or the front corners.
One can also serve to the back corners called the 'flick serve'. Below is Fu Haifeng doing a flick serve to Tan Boon Heong's backhand corner.

GIFSoup
Another variation is the drive serve.

The server should signal to the back player what kind of service he's doing. For example, if the server did a flick serve, he should communicate to his partner via a signal. When doing the flick serve, both the serving side must be prepared to defend a smash and adopt a side by side stance.

For the serve to the front corner, a simple signal will do, so that the back person gets ready to smash. Here Koo Kien Kiat (MAS) signals to his partner Tan Boon Heong (MAS), the direction of his serve.

Racquets I used to own

My current racquets:

1X AT900P 3UG5(Markis Kido)
1X NS9900JP 2UG5
1X Gosen Roots Aermet 6900 3UG5
2X Ti-10 3UG5 (Koo Kien Kiat)
1x Carbonex 21SP 2UG4
1x APACS weight training racquet 120g G5.

Used to own:

2X AT900T 3UG5 SP/JP
1X AT700 3UG4 SP
1X NS9000X 3UG4
1X NS5000 3UG4
1X Carbonex 21 special SP 2UG4
1x Gosen Roots Aermet 2700 3UG5
1X Wilson K-Tour
1X Wilson K-Pro
1X MP99 SP 3UG5
1X Ti-10 3UG4 (2nd Gen)
1X Carbonex 8 SP

Heck I'm such a Yonex Homer, they will be lucky if I work for them. :) How to submit my resume?

Reverse Badminton :)

The term around the head shot can be named interchangably with reverse shots.

i.e. reverse smash, reverse clear, reverse drop and reverse drive. Basically it is a shot you take over your non-dominant shoulder. It's primarily an overhead stroke (above net level)

It's the prefered way to hit the shuttle on your backhand side. It has numerous advantages over the backhand shot:
1) you can see the shuttle in front of you and the position of opponent

2) you can hit a forehand shot (via pronation which is more powerful than supination)

3) you have more variety of shots to hit

4) you can gain the initiative to attack

The disadvantage are the following:

1) in singles, it's more draining on your stamina than a backhand shot. Backhand strokes are quicker to return to the ready position at center court.

2) higher risk of ankle roll since the upwards of 3X your body weight lands on your foot, especially the reverse jumpsmash.

It's always taught to players to use this shot rather than the backhand. Backhand = Bad habit.

Fu Hai Feng (CHN) going for the reverse jumpsmash

Koo Kien Kiat (MAS) going for the reverse jumpsmash

Former player Zhang Ning(CHN) doing the reverse drop

Former player Zhang Ning (CHN) doing the reverse sliced drop



Anthony Clark (a leftie) pulled off two reversed sliced drop in succession

GIFSoup

Xie Xing Fang (CHN) doing a reverse smash


Scissor kicking

Reverse shots are a dynamic shot. Basically you need to use your body's momentum to generate power. It's not only the wrist that's involved. The scissoring of the body is known as the scissor kick. It basically enables the player to hit a powerful shot on their forehand and allows the player to return to base quickly. This is fundamental to recovery for the next shot.

For singles player, the scissor kick is directed to centre court. For doubles player, it's usually to centre as well but behind the front player if you are smashing from the baseline.


Here Lee Chong Wei (MAS) demonstrating the scissor kick after a reverse shot

Sony Dwi Kuncoro (INA) scissor kicking to return to centre court

Koo Kien Kiat (MAS) scissor kicking to return to his base on the right

Weight of racquets and stiffness

When choosing a racquet, there are questions one need to ask.

1) Am I a single or doubles player?
2) Am I a defensive/offensive or all around (defense/offense) player?

Generally to answer these questions is pretty simple.

1) If you are a single player preferbly a head heavy racquet is better as it provides more momentum in a slower swing.
If you are a doubles player, a headlight racquet is definitely better than a headheavy one. Headlight racquet favours the wrist as it generally quicker and benefit the short hitting action. In doubles, there is more pressure in the defense and the defensive properties of a headlight racquet is better. One can also choose an even balance racquet if one plays both singles/doubles.

2) Generally, a stiff racquet is consider a more offensive racquet. However, one must bear in mind, if one has a fast swing and strong enough to flex the stiff racquet, then the power of the racquet will be unleashed. A more flexible racquet benefits a slow swing which benefits weaker players. A medium flex is suitable for both strong and weak players. A defensive player will probably benefit from a headlight flexible/medium racquet or a flexible head heavy racquet. A offensive player will probably benefit from a stiff or extra stiff head heavy/even/headlight balance racquet. An all round player is probably suited for even balance stiff/medium balance racquet.

The end of Yonex Sunrise Gold Grand Prix 23-29th June 2009

Controversy surrounding the victory of China's mixed doubles pair Ma Jin/Zheng Bo.
Their fellow Chinese opponent conceited defeat, as the female player claimed ankle injury.

Sequence of events:
Before the game, players were introduced and cheered.

Score was 5-5. A medic ran up to talk to the injured player. Later the team China's medic came and examined the player.

There is some delay as the players keep their belongings and get ready to go on the podium.

Astonishingly, the 'injured' player casually walk up to claim the 2nd prize.Later Ma Jin went to claim the WD's title with a win over Malaysia's Wong/Chin.

Awesome game today. Play a total of 3.5 hours non-stop. Badminton bonanza.

Shuttlecocks didn't stand a chance. :)

Old Carbonex 21 review

Just a random review of a racquet I have with me since 2000.

Flex: Stiff
Balance: Headheavy
Composition (Frame): H.M. Graphite

(Shaft): H.M. Graphite,

Weight/Grip size: 3U (85.0-89.9g) / G4,5 2U (90.0-94.9g) / G3,4,5　

Technology: built-in-T joint
Review Date : 21st June 2008
Racket Type : Yonex Carbonex 21 SP

Specs : 2UG4
Strings: Yonex BG66 Tension: 25lbs ,1 Piece Stringing
Stringing Machine : Pacific Stringing machine
Technology : H.M. graphite

Grip: Cyber Plus Beta plus Wilson Pro overgrip
Shuttle Used: RSL Tourney

First Impression: A classic oval Yonex racquet. Solid dark color, a mixture of metallic dark slate gray and gold strips, with the metallic dark slate gray being the dominant color. The racquet is headheavy at about 290+/-5mm. The racquet has high swing speed, owing to slim shaft. This racquet feels solid and well constructed. It lack the control support cap of the later models of Yonex, which was why it's common for players to wrap overgrip all the way to the cone for better control.

Warm Ups: The swing of this racquet is extremely fast as it was one of the 1st Yonex racquet with a super slim shaft. It is fantastic when clearing and smashing as the racquet cuts through the air efficiently. The clears are easy to excecute and smashing is fun with this racquet. When hit in the sweetspot, the smash is fear inducing and loud (thin strings). The control is good at the net. Driving is a bit challenging with this racquet, that is why it's less used in doubles unless you have very high skill.

Game Time: Serving is good with this racquet, especially forehand long serve. Flick serves and receiving service near the net is a bit tricky unless you hold the racquet at the cone. Driving with backhand and forehand are a bit challenging. The clear is also good, but need to control your strength. The smash is good enough . What can I say for defense, it's sluggish but need good racquet skills to be effective. Netkills are easy too with this weapon. Drops and sliced drops are accurate with this racquet, thus, the feel is good too with this racquet. The heaviness of this racquet maybe challenging to move around quickly.

Conclusion: A classic oval and basic racquet with HM graphite and around 20 years old. Moreover, this racquet is a proven commodity in international competition, wielded by former players like Park Joo Bong, Wang Chen and Wong Choong Hann.

Feel: 8/10

Control: 7.5/10
Power: 9/10
Defense: 5.5/10
Maneuverability: 7.5/10
Pros: Excellent singles racquet and has hard hitting power.
Cons: Unforgiving racquet and has small sweetspot
Suitability: Intermediate/Advance/professional Singles player

YONEX/Sunrise sports recommendation for player type:
For advanced players looking for solid feeling
Yonex rating 1-5
Power 5
Control 5
Flex 4
(Ref: Yonex badminton chart)

Conclusion of Indonesian Open Super Series 2009

The outcome of this tournament was good for badminton.

We see a new champion emerging in Women's singles, India's Saina Nehwal.

The Men's singles winner is Lee Chong Wei.

The WD was won by Malaysia's Chin/Wong

The MD was won by Korea's Lee Yong Dae/Jung Jae-Sung

The MD was won by China's Zheng Bo/Ma Jin

Gosen Roots Aermet 6900 (Boonsak Model) Burgundy color (1st Gen)

Flex: Stiff-
Balance: Headheavy
Composition (Frame): H.M. Hot Melt Graphite, Aermet Mesh
(Shaft): H.M. Hot Melt Graphite
Weight/Grip size: 3U(85.0-88.0g) / G4, 5, 6
Technology: Aermet Mesh, Roots delta Joint, Vibeless grommet, Gavun (Two Kick point), Long shaft, Flat cap

Review Date : 14th June 2009
Racket Type : Gosen Roots Aermet 6900 Boonsak Model
Specs : 3UG5
Strings: Yonex BG66 Tension: 25lbs ,2 Piece Stringing
Stringing Machine : Pacific Stringing machine
Technology : Vibeless Grommet, Aermet Mesh, Gavun Two Kick Point, Roots Delta joint
Grip: Aerotec Yonex grip plus Toalson Pro overgrip
Shuttle Used: APACS tournament grade

First Impression: Beautiful color, a mixture of red, yellow and burgundy, adorned with gold lettering on the shaft and silver on the frame. The word 'Boonsak Model' are emblazzoned at the shaft and Boonsak's signature are inscribed on the 5 and 7 o'clock on the racquet frame. The racquet is headheavy at about 290+/-5mm. The racquet has high swing speed, owing to long slim shaft and rather squarish head. This racquet's handle is slightly shorter than most racquets. I found the balance of the racquet to be slightly above even balance and the racquet feels light for a 3U. The stiffness of the racquet feels rather medium than stiff.

Warm Ups: The swing of this racquet is easy as the headheaviness has its own momentum. It is fantastic when clearing and driving. The clears are easy to excecute and defending is fun with this racquet. The control is good at the net. The smash is good, deceptively powerful, enough to finish off rallies. This racquet is easy to get used to.

Game Time: Serving is good with this racquet, as the short handle grip on the flat cap allows good flick serves and receiving service near the net. Driving with backhand and forehand are superb. The clear is also good, but need to control your strength. The smash is excellent. For defense, it's one of the best due to its weight. Netkills are easy too with this weapon. Drops and sliced drops are average with this racquet, thus, the feel is average too with this racquet. The lack of feeling is chiefly cause by too much vibration dampening by the 'vibeless grommet' which is a trade off between feeling and comfort. But otherwise is still excellent. Manuverability is excellent due to its lightweight.

Conclusion: This is Gosen's professional racquet. This racquet is an attacking racquet by nature, best used by offensive players as the smash is above average and driving is excellent. Moreover, this racquet is a proven commodity in international competition, wielded by Thai siblings, Boonsak and Salakjiit Ponsana.

Feel: 7/10
Control: 8.5/10
Power: 9/10
Defense: 8.5/10
Maneuverability: 9/10

Pros: Excellent light attacking racquet, one of the better balance racquet and no vibration.
Cons: No vibration doesn't mean it's all good, feeling of strings bouncing is important for drops.
Suitability: Intermediate/Advance/professional Doubles and Singles player

APACS badminton

I notice that APACS badminton is very popular in Malaysia and Singapore.

This is becasue it targets enthusiastic badminton players who may not afford a high end major brand racquets or do not need a professional racquet for competition.

However, APACS has sponsored professional players like Tan Bin Shen and Gan Teik Chai of Malaysia.


I bought an APACS training racquet recently. It weighs 120g. There are 3 variants of the racquets: 160g, 140g and 120g. When I took out the grip, I noticed there are strips of lead sheets added for extra weight.

Conclusion of Singapore Open

It was a hectic day of Badminton fest in Singapore. I made regular trip to Kallang Singapore Indoor stadium to watch the full display of Badminton joust. The many upsets by unheralded players over more illustrious players highlighted why we humans enjoy watching sporting events so much, the triumphs and defeats. There is a saying in sports, anything can happen.

With regards to the sponsor Li-Ning, I think they did a good job considering this is their first major sponsorship of a major badminton tournament outside of their motherland.

Their slogan 'anything is possible' is kinda ambigous, which is a rephrase of Addidas, 'impossible is nothing'. But I feel, this is a young company, born in 1989.
Considering Li-Ning is a China company, their main market is China and foreign market second. The brochures of Li-Ning badminton has so much grammatical error that it looks comical given the amount of cash they charged their badminton racquets, shoes and apparels. This is understandable given, that it is Chinese own with Chinese mentality. What they did is a direct translation of the Mandarin sentences/phrases into English. This is not recommended as English has a more complex/precise grammar/syntax than (spoken) Chinese.

I think the did a great job selling Sun Zu's four elements of Woods, Rocks, Storm and Flame which played on Chinese elements and selling them to Western consumtion.

I'll say despite some distrust on its price and gimmicks, I think Li-Ning did ok, most importantly there's no major hiccup and things move smoothly. Besides, the wining of Bao Chun Lai, Mixed Doubles pair and Women's doubles cemented their reputation as sponsors of winners.

Aviva Singapore Open 2009

Xie XingFang warming up. In this match, she played Salakjit Ponsana of Thailand with the Yellow Gosen racquet.

Attended the Singapore Open Quaterfinals.

Managed to obtain Markis Kido's sginature on my AT900P.

But I found Li-Ning's price is too expensive.

A funny thing is that in order to get an autograph from the China badminton player, you need to buy SGD50 worth of Li-Ning's merchandise.
Talk about desperation given the economic climate.

Sudirman Cup

After beating Malaysia 3-0, China started the sudirman cup finals with a win over favourite the XD pair of Korea Lee Yong Dae/Lee Hyo Jung. China went on to sweep Korea 3-0. What a debut of team Li-Ning.

Another incident vs Malaysia, Koo Kian Kiat showed his middle finger at his racquet.
Why you cuss the poor Titanium Mesh-10?

Where is the badminton?

It's been a while since the last Superseries tournament?

Thank goodness, the Sudirman cup is coming next week.

Review of AT900 Technique

Flex: Stiff

Balance: Headheavy

Composition (Frame): Ultra H.M. Graphite, Micro Ti, Elastic Titanium

(Shaft): H.M. Graphite, Elastic Titanium

Weight/Grip size: 4U(80.0-84.9g) / G43U(85.0-89.9g) / G3, 4, 5

Technology: Nanoscience, Power Armor System, Elastic Ti, C.S. cap, new grommet system, isometric, built-in-T joint

Review Date : 1st June 2008

Racket Type : Yonex AT900T JP

Specs : 3UG5

Strings: Yonex NBG95 Tension: 25lbs ,1 Piece Stringing

Stringing Machine : Pacific Stringing machine

Technology : Elastic Ti, C.S. Cap, Power Armor system, New grommet system

Grip: Cyber Plus Beta plus Wilson Pro overgrip

Shuttle Used: RSL Tourney

First Impression: Beautiful color, a mixture of red, white and black, with white being the dominant color. The word 'technique' are emblazzoned at the top of the frame and the shaft. The racquet is headheavy at about 290+/-5mm. The racquet has high swing speed, owing to slim shaft and aero head. This racquet feels solid and well constructed, with a handle slightly longer than AT700. I found the balance of the racquet to be slightly above even balance and the racquet feels lighter than its counterpart, AT900P.

Warm Ups: The swing of this racquet is easy as the headheaviness has its own momentum. It is fantastic when clearing and driving. The clears are easy to excecute and defending is fun with this racquet. The control is excellent at the net. The smash is good, not exactly fear inducing but is enough to finish off rallies. This racquet is easy to get used to.

Game Time: Serving is good with this racquet, as the long grip and cs cap allows good flick serves and receiving service near the net. Driving with backhand and forehand are superb. The clear is also good, but need to control your strength. The smash is good enough . What can I say for defense, it's one of the better defensive racquet, but if you defend using forehand or backhand, you can counterattack easily. Netkills are easy too with this weapon. Drops and sliced drops are accurate with this racquet, thus, the feel is good too with this racquet. The aero head design has superb maneuverability.

Conclusion: It's an improved version of Armortec 800 Defensive. This racquet is an counter attacking racquet by nature, best used by defensive players as the drive is awesome and the net play fantastic. Moreover, this racquet is a proven commodity in international competition, wielded by Yip Pui Yin and Chai Yun.

Feel: 9/10
Control: 9/10
Power: 8/10

Defense: 9/10

Maneuverability: 9/10

Pros: Excellent counterattacking racquet and one of the best balance racquet.

Cons: A bit trying to attack all day with this racquet.

Suitability: Intermediate/Advance/professional Doubles and Singles player

YONEX/Sunrise sports recommendation for player type:
Allows players with more head speed & agile maneuvers

Yonex rating 1-5
Power 5
Control 5
Flex 5
(Ref: Yonex badminton chart)

Review of AT900 Power

Flex: Stiff
Balance: Headheavy
Composition (Frame): Ultra H.M. Graphite, Micro Ti, Elastic Titanium
(Shaft): H.M. Graphite, Elastic Titanium
Weight/Grip size: 4U(80.0-84.9g) / G43U(85.0-89.9g) / G3, 4, 5
Technology: Nanoscience, Power Armor System, Elastic Ti, C.S. cap, new grommet system, isometric, built-in-T joint

Review Date : 14th April 2009
Racket Type : Yonex AT900P SP
Specs : 3UG5
Strings: Yonex BG66 Tension: 25lbs ,1 Piece Stringing
Stringing Machine : Victor Stringing machine
Technology : Elastic Ti, C.S. Cap, Power Armor system, New grommet system
Grip: Cyber Plus Beta plus Wilson Pro overgrip

Shuttle Used: RSL Tourney

First Impression: Beautiful color, a mixture of red, maroon and silver, with maroon being the dominant color. It has the word 'Power' emblazzoned at the tip of the frame and on the shaft. The racquet is headheavy at about 295+/-5mm. This racquet feels solid and well constructed, with a handle slightly longer than AT700. I found its flexibility to be extra stiff, rather than just stiff. The racquet has a boxy crosssection on the lower portion of the frame.

Warm Ups: The swing of this racquet is easy as the headheaviness has its own momentum. It is fantastic when clearing or smashing. The clears are easy to excecute. Howver, this racquet has it's own momentum and the follow through can be tough on the wrist and shoulders. Does feel tiring to use if lifting too much.

Game Time: Serving is good with this racquet, as the long grip and cs cap allows good flick serves and receiving service near the net. Driving with forehands is superb, but backhands is a bit more difficult. The clear is also good, but need to control your strength. The smash is fantastic, with a big square head, the follow through is excellent and can generate quite a very loud smash, with a 'snapping' sound. What can I say for defense, it's not exactly one of the best, but if you defend using forehand, you can counterattack. However, it's tough to defend using backhands as the headheaviness impedes quick wrist action. Netkills are easy too with this weapon. Drops and sliced drops are accurate with this racquet, thus, the feel is good too with this racquet.

Conclusion: It's an improved version of Armortec 800 Offensive. This racquet is an attacking racquet by nature, best used by aggressive players as the smash is awesome, on par with AT700. Moreover, this racquet is a proven commodity in international competition, wielded by Lee Chong Wei and Markis Kido.

Feel: 9.5/10

Control: 9/10

Power: 10/10

Defense: 6.5/10

Maneuverability: 8/10

Pros: attacking racquet par excellence.

Cons: A bit trying to defend all day with this racquet.

Suitability: Intermediate/Advance/professional Doubles and Singles player

YONEX/Sunrise sports recommendation for player type:
For players who want rapid counter attacking power

Yonex rating 1-5
Power 5
Control 5
Flex 5
(Ref: Yonex badminton chart)

Review of AT700 (2nd Gen)

Flex: Extra Stiff
Balance: Headheavy
Composition (Frame): U.H.M. Graphite, gForce Ti
Composition (Shaft): H.M. Graphite, Ultimum Ti
Weight / Grip Size: 4U(80.0-84.9g) / G4 and 3U(85.0-89.9g) / G3, 4, 5
Technologies: Power Armor system, Isometric, Built in T-joint, Ultimum ti, C.S. Cap

Review Date : 4th April 2009
Racket Type : Yonex Armortec 700 SP
Specs : 3UG4
Balance point: 295+/-5 mm
Strings: Yonex BG66 Tension: 27lbs
1 Piece Stringing Stringing Machine : Pacific Stringing machine
Grip: Yonex cyber plus beta + Babolat syntec Overgrip
Shuttle Used: RSL tourney 1

First Impression: This racquet has a very distinct color, bright red. The top part of the racquet from 10 to 2 o'clock is the usual power armor system with the micro titanium tape on top of the grommets. The bright red color starts from the shaft all the way up to the t-joint and and black color starts at 6 to 8 o'clock. Red then continues from 8 to 10 o'clock. Similar on the right side.

Warm Ups: Clears are rather effortless, the headheaviness aids in power generation. This racquet really feels headheavy and 'heavy' compared to all modern Yonex racquets. Other strokes are fine in the begining of warmup. The handle seems shorter than AT900T and AT900P. The flex of the racquet does not seem very stiff as claimed by Yonex, rather stiff.

Game Time: Clears and smashes are outstanding, can't get any better than this. Controls at the net is good and drops are ok. Driving is very tiring with this racquet, similar for defense as well, need to input a lot of energy on the wrist to get any power to lift the shuttle.

Conclusion: This racquet is a double edge sword. On the one hand, you get unsurpassed firepower from this beast. On the other hand, you trade defense for power.

Feel: 9/10
Control: 8.5/10
Power: 10/10
Defense: 5.5/10
Maneuverability: 8/10

Pros: Very good power if you look for an excellent singles racquet, this is it. Clears and smash are very powerful. Defense/maneuverability (or shot making pressure) is not so important in singles, the 3 important parameters for singles play are feel, control and power which the AT700 excels in.

Cons: Introduced in 2004, this racquet lacks new technology, some questioned its durability and harder to defend with it in doubles. Some hardcore players feel a sentimental longing for the 1st generation AT700.

Suitability: 3U for High intermediate/Advance Attacking type singles player and 4U for doubles player

YONEX/Sunrise sports recommendation for player type:
For young adults-advanced players looking for greater power, speed and more maneuverability

Yonex rating 1-5
Power 5
Control 5
Flex 5
(Ref: Yonex badminton chart)

Injuries in Badminton is low, mostly owing to overuse

Peter Gade's forehand trickshot

Pretty sick forehand.

Titanium Mesh 10 Review (Ti-10 3rd generation)

Flex: Stiff+
Balance: Headlight
Composition (Frame): U.H.M. Graphite, Ti-Mesh
Composition (Shaft): U.H.M. Graphite
Weight / Grip Size: 3U (85.0-89.9g) / G5
Technology: Built in T-joint, Muscle Power, Ti-mesh

Review Date : 22 March 2009

Racket Type : Yonex Ti-10 Mesh SP
Specs : 3UG5
Strings: Yonex BG66 Tension: 25lbs ,
1 Piece Stringing Stringing Machine : Pacific Stringing machine
Technology : Titanium Mesh, Muscle Power, Ultra High Modulus Graphite, T-joint
Grip: Cyber Plus Beta plus Wilson Pro overgrip
Shuttle Used: RSL Tourney

First Impression: Beautiful color, a mixture of purple, silver and black. There's a hint of red on the sides at 9 o'clock and gold decorating the shaft. There are 2 x ti mesh decals at the sides. Looked somewhat similar to the 1st generation Ti-10 except for the purplish color. The racquet is headlight about 285+/-5mm. The racquet has high swing speed, owing to slim shaft. The racquet is 'long' compared to a shorter carbonex series. This racquet feels solid and well constructed. I found its flexibility to be stiff, rather than extra stiff.

Warm Ups: The swing of this racquet is very fast. It is fantastic when lifting the shuttle and driving. The clears are relatively easy/comfortable to execute. However, this racquet has it's own momentum and the follow through can be tough on the wrist and shoulders. The racquet is headlight and aids in backhand. Does not feel tiring to use.

Game Time: Serving backhands with this racquet is excellent, I can feel that this is a dedicated doubles racquet. Flick serve is easy with this racquet. Hitting drive shots with backhands and forehands is superb. One flick and the shuttles almost touch the backcourt baseline. The clear is also good, but need to control your strength. The smash is fantastic, with a big square head, the follow through is excellent and can generate quite a powerful smash for a headlight racquet. What can I say for defense, this racquet is arguably one of the best defending racquet. The combination of headlight balance and square head gives momentum, allows quick short swing action, allowing easy crosscourt lifts to baseline. Netkills are easy too with this weapon. Drops and sliced drops are average with this racquet, thus, the feel is average with this racquet, hence it's less suited for singles play.

Conclusion: It's the 3rd reincarnation of the popular Yonex Titanium Mesh 10. The racquet is perfect for the doubles game. It is designed for superb defense, great in fast flat shots/drives and powerful smashes. For its price, its performance rivals the top of the line Arcsabers, Armortecs and Nanospeed. Moreover, this racquet is a proven commodity in international competition, commonly wielded by Malaysian and China doubles national team.

Feel: 8.5/10
Control: 9/10
Power: 9/10
Defense: 9.5/10
Maneuverability: 9/10

Pros: Fast Racket Speed, Maneuverability, power and performance over price ratio

Cons: May not hold very high tension and may cause sore joints for less advance players

Suitability: High intermediate/Advance/professional Doubles Players. Not suitable for beginners.

YONEX/Sunrise sports recommendation for player type:
For Advanced players looking for ultimate control and solid feeling

Yonex rating: 1-5
Flex 5
Power 5
Control 5
(Ref: Yonex badminton chart)

Racket Type : Yonex Ti-10 Mesh SP
Specs : 2UG5 ;2U (90.0-94.9g)
Strings: Yonex BG66 Tension: 24lbs , 2 Piece Stringing Stringing
Technology : Titanium Mesh, Muscle Power, Ultra High Modulus Graphite, T-joint
Grip: Cyber Plus Beta plus Wilson Pro overgrip
Shuttle Used: APACS AeroFlight 800/700

Feel: 9/10
Control: 9/10
Power: 9.5/10
Defense: 9/10
Maneuverability: 8.5/10

Conclusion: Similar to the 3U version, except this racquet is slightly more powerful and have better feeling. Defense/maneuverability suffer a tiny bit due to the extra weight.

Yonex Nanospeed 9900 review

Flex: Extra Stiff
Balance: Headlight
Composition (Frame): H.M. Graphite, X-Fullerene
Composition (Shaft): H.M. Graphite, Fullerene
Weight / Grip Size: 3U (85.0-89.9 g) / G3, 4, 5 2U (90.0-94.9 g) / G3, 4, 5
Technologies: X-Fullerene, Isometric, Built in T-joint, Nanoscale Fullerene, C.S. Cap

Review Date : 22nd March 2009
Launch Date : Feb 24 2009
Racket Type : Yonex NanoSpeed 9900 JP
Specs : 2UG5 (JP)
Balance point: 285+/-5 mm
Strings: Yonex Nanogy98 Tension 26lbs
1 Piece Stringing Stringing Machine : Pacific Stringing machine
Grip: Original Grip + Wilson Pro Overgrip
Shuttle Used: RSL tourney 1

First Impression: The anticipation is finally over, when I opened my shipment fron shuttle house Japan, I am amazed how beautiful this racquet look. The racquet has 1 dominant color, black. Red is present at 10 and 2 o'clock, striped ala AT900P. The Metallic orange stripes adorned with white stripes looks beautiful, sort of break the silhoullete of the racquet. The orange color reminds me of a twirling stick candy common in Western counries. Moreover, the bright orange also gives the impression that you are charging up power/electricity to be unleashed. It feels comfortable when I handle the racket, I balance the unstrung racquet on my pinkie finger and measured the balance point, which is true to Yonex specs, headlight. The flex of the racquet is rated extra stiff which is accurate. I did a comparison with a 3UG5 SP version as well.

Warm Ups: The racquet has a solid feel, kinda like the NS9000 series. The speed at which the head swings is extremely fast, exactly like a Ti-10. For less advance players, this can cause some pain in your wrist and shoulders. The racquet has a very aerodynamic slim head which translate into superfast reaction/swing speed. During clears/drives I did feel some vibration. Nevertheless it does not interfere with the control of the shuttlecock as well as drop shots. Baseline to baseline hits is comfortable. Smashes are on par with AT900P, and placement is very accurate. The racquet has a combination of the power of a head heavy racquet and speed of a headlight racquet.

Game Time: Accuracy with backhand serve is excellent, forehand high serve goes high and far. Drives are excellent, both offensive and defensive drives, due to headlight balance. Defense is par excellence, especially backhand defense. This racquet is like a wall to repel steep smashes and easy to backhand lift all the way to the backcourt. The new CS cap and the long handle allows thumb grip for faster reaction time and easier for netkills as well. The clear and smashes are excellent. Although the follow through feels like a headheavy racquet, due to the very fast head speed. Lifts and net shots are easy. This racquet has very good playability both front court and back court. This racquet really shines at defense with the backhand. Backhand with this racquet is superb, the swing speed allows easier clears and smashes.

Conclusion: NS9900 is the latest Nanospeed high end series. It definitely has the fastest racket head swing compare with the rest of the NS Series. Combined with the extra stiffness of the shaft, this racquet can really sting with smashes and drives. Durability of the racket frame is enhanced by doing away with the extra grommets of the NS9000 series making it strung the same way as an Arcsaber 10. The 3U version of the racquet is lighter and has the same characteristics as the 2U and but 3U easier to use in doubles. I would recommend a 3U for doubles and a 2U for singles.

Feel: 9/10
Control: 9/10
Power: 9.5/10
Defense: 9/10
Maneuverability: 9.5/10

Total: 9.2/10

Pros: Very fast head speed, excellent defence, power and maneuverability

Cons: Price and probably best used by high intermediate or Advanced players. Owing to the headlight balance and very fast swing speed, it may cause sore joints.

Suitability: 3U for Intermediate/Advance Doubles Players and 2U for singles player

YONEX/Sunrise sports recommendation for player type:
Solid feel impact for smash based hard hitters looking for more power and durability
Yonex rating 1-5
Power 5
Control 5
Flex 5
(Ref: Yonex badminton chart)

Racket Type : Yonex NanoSpeed 9900 SP

Specs : 3UG5 (SP)
Balance point: 285+/-5 mm
Strings: Yonex BG66 @ Tension 25 lbs
2 Piece Stringing Stringing Machine : Yonex ES5 PROTECH
Grip: Karakal super PU grip + Toalson Overgrip
Shuttle Used: APACS Aeroflight 700

Feel: 8.5/10
Control: 8.5/10
Power: 9/10
Defense: 10/10
Maneuverability: 10/10