Wilson ProStaff Original 6.0
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The Wilson ProStaff Original 6.0 is a tennis racquet made by Wilson and garnered much attention when tennis great Pete Sampras used it in much of his career. It's current successor is known as the Wilson kSix-One, which is currently used by ATP Pro Roger Federer. Players must, however, note that Federer's racquet is custom-made for him by Wilson and thus will play considerably differently to an off the shelf (stock version) kSix-One. Indeed, the make of Roger's racquet beneath its paintjob has continued to remain under avid and heated speculation by a large number of racquet enthusiasts on several tennis forums.
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[edit] History
Originally manufactured in Chicago, Illinois and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the ProStaff was Wilson's answer to the Prince Original Graphite and the Dunlop 200G Max. Several ATP and WTA Touring pros used the ProStaff but one in particular stood out, a young Pete Sampras from Southern California emerged on the tennis scene, shocking many by wining the U.S. Open at age 19 in straight sets over Andre Agassi with the racquet. Other notable players who have used the Prostaff Original 6.0 to considerable success are Stefan Edberg, Jim Courier, Chris Evert and Mary Pierce. Together, their grand slam singles total is a substantial 43 championships.
[edit] Specifications
The 6.0 comes in 2 head sizes, 85 and 95 square inches. The 85 is unforgiving with it's 12.6 ounce weight and extremely low power. The 95 is much more forgiving with an overall weight of 12.2 ounces and a lower swingweight (317 as opposed to the 85's 326). Both have a 16x18 string pattern making the frame more open and easier to generate spin albeit the user must generate much of the spin's power.
[edit] Significance
Besides being used by many pros and club players in it's heyday, the ProStaff 6.0 continues to have a cult-like following. It's initial success is due in part to tennis legend Pete Sampras who used the frame in his career, it should be noted however, that Sampras did not use a stock version but a heavier and weaker version. The racquet has brought on many variations such as the 6.1 and the ROK models, both of which were and still are favoured in the tennis world. The st. vincent make, favoured by Sampras himself, became the choice racket for collectors. since the st. vincent factory has closed down, demand for it is causing an increase, both in its rarity and its price.
[edit] Criticism
The 6.0 has drawn criticism for its weight, small head and low power. Though the small head may be consistent, it has forced many mishits from players. Many counter by saying that the head does not matter, but that the timing of the shots is what is important. However, it's heavy weight and low rate of power turn off many as current users use Midplus and Oversize racquets for greater power and a greater hitting range.
