Racquet size by age
Racquet size for a 8-year-old
The move from red to orange ball for many kids: a longer court and a faster, higher ball.
At age 8
- If your 8-year-old is 50 in or taller, a 25 inch usually fits better.
- Moving to orange ball is about skill: rallying, serving and scoring on the red court.
- Many 8-year-olds now play short red or orange ball tournaments.
What changes at 9
At 9 the Wilson chart moves to a 25 inch racquet, and many kids play orange ball.
Age 8: quick answers
What size tennis racquet for a 8-year-old?
Most 8-year-olds use a 23 inch racquet, which fits children 45–49 in (114–127 cm) tall. Measure height to be sure.
What ball does a 8-year-old play with?
Usually the red ball (about 75% slower than a yellow ball) on a 36 × 18 ft court, net 2 ft 9 in. Many 8-year-olds are moving to the orange ball. USTA sections set their own ages, so ask your coach.
My 8-year-old is tall (or small) for their age. Which size?
Go by height. 19 in: under 40 in (102 cm); 21 in: 40–44 in (102–114 cm); 23 in: 45–49 in (114–127 cm); 25 in: 50–55 in (127–142 cm); 26 in: 56–58 in (142–150 cm); 27 in: 59 in (150 cm) and up.
Sources: HEAD Speed 23 Junior specs (Tennis Warehouse) · Wilson: Junior tennis rackets (size by age) · USTA: Ball and court sizes for kids. Ball stage by age is a typical path; USTA sections set their own ages.