Joola Agassi Pro Paddle Review
Joola Agassi Pro: A Bold Shape
Yesterday, I shared my Joola Perseus Pro 4 16mm review. Soon after, many people (This one’s for you Riz) asked how it compares to the new Joola Agassi Pro paddle. The Agassi Pro made waves in the pickleball world for its unusual shape and tennis inspired design, so I was intrigued enough to test it out for myself. Thanks to Austin for loaning me his paddle for testing.
Here is the twist: I am not an ex-tennis player. I have no background in racket sports, and I naturally prefer hitting the ball closer to the mid section of the paddle face, where I find more consistency for my drop focused game. The Agassi Pro shifts the sweet spot higher, which can be fantastic if you love driving the ball, but it is a mismatch for my preference to play a more controlled, drop heavy style.
That said, I can see how tennis players, or anyone who wants a top heavy paddle with more spin potential, would enjoy the design. For me, though, it just was not the perfect fit. Let us dive in deeper so you can decide if the Agassi Pro matches your game.
Initial impressions: The paddle immediately feels premium in hand, and its unique shape stands out even during warm-up swings.
Specifications
- Weight: ~8.2–8.4 oz (stock). Can be customized with lead or tungsten tape.
- Dimensions: Roughly 16.5″ x 7.5″, with a flared top and narrow base.
- Thickness: 16 mm.
- Material: Includes Tech Flex Power (TFP) foam, Propulsion Core, raw carbon face, and Dual Foam inserts.
- Handle Length: About 5.5″ — suitable for two handed backhands.
- Grip Circumference: ~4.25″.
Performance Analysis
Here is my take on how the Joola Agassi Pro performs, but keep in mind I naturally favor a lower sweet spot and a drop oriented game rather than slamming drives.
Control/Feel
Rated Very Good. Even though the sweet spot is higher than I typically like, the paddle still has a solid, predictable feel. I did struggle with lower face contact, especially on dinks and resets, because I was not hitting that prime area for this paddle’s design. For me, that made control a little finicky, but for many tennis style players, this could be a dream come true.
Power
Rated Good to Very Good. Despite leaning toward a controlled style, I still noticed that the Agassi Pro carries plenty of punch. Drives have serious pop, though for me, it was less valuable, because I do not drive the ball often. I know others who thrive on drives and big swings appreciate the easy power.
Spin
Rated Exceptional. This is the paddle’s spotlight feature. Whether you come from tennis or simply want more spin to keep your shots low, the raw carbon surface works wonders. Personally, this fits my game well for brushing topspin serves and drips (hybrid drop drive).
Pop
Rated High. It is not as springy as the older 3S that I found borderline too poppy, but the Agassi Pro is still on the lively side. My short game sometimes felt a hair jumpy, and that is a reflection of my preference for a softer, more controlled face.
Forgiveness
Rated Good. Even with the narrower base, the foam inserts help the paddle remain relatively stable on off center hits, especially near the top. My personal challenge came when I mis hit lower on the face (USAP logo area, where most of my mishits happen). That area is not as forgiving, which is why I typically prefer a sweet spot that is more centered or lower.
Maneuverability
Rated Very Good. The balance felt somewhat top heavy to me, but it is still surprisingly easy to swing in quick exchanges. If you are comfortable with that weight distribution, you can become very agile at the net, especially in close quarters.
Joola Agassi Pro In Depth Review
Design & Build Quality
The Agassi Pro shares much of the technology found in Joola’s Pro 4 series, but the shape truly stands out. They moved the sweet spot higher, apparently to cater to tennis players who like to make contact away from the handle. Build wise, the paddle uses TFP foam in the throat, a Propulsion Core, and Dual Foam along the edges, similar to my Perseus Pro 4. The raw carbon face grips the ball nicely, perfect for big topspin attacks.
Overall, the construction feels premium. When I borrowed it from Austin, I marveled at how different it looked from the standard elongated paddles I am used to swinging. The paddle’s narrow bottom, with a wider, flared top, is truly one of a kind in the pickleball space. Includes Hyperfoam Edge Wall on the upper portion for added swing weight without sacrificing balance.
Also includes an NFC chip in the handle for authenticity and tracking.
Joola Agassi Pro On Court Performance
I played with the Agassi Pro in a rec game and some drills. Immediately, I noticed its pop. With a drive, the ball sails off the face impressively fast, and the spin potential is huge. However, since I drop and dink more than I drive, the paddle’s strongest features were not always working in my favor. It felt like I had to adjust my contact point higher, and sometimes I lost confidence with short resets because I normally contact the ball closer to the handle.
Despite that, I can absolutely see the upside for others. If you love swinging big, this shape will reward you with spin and depth. The top section is extremely lively, and the foam near the throat boosts stability so the paddle does not twist in your hand. In hand battles or quick volley exchanges, it was fairly maneuverable, though the heavier top took a bit of adaptation.
Control
My play style revolves around control and drops, so adjusting to a higher sweet spot tested my patience. I had to remember to strike the ball nearer the paddle’s tip for the best feedback. Once I did, short game shots felt decently controllable. That said, if your default contact point is lower, you may mis-hit more than usual.
Power
Power is solid, especially for players who can engage that top area consistently. I do not rely heavily on power, but I could tell that overheads, smashes, and drives flew off the face with authority.
Spin
Spin stands out as the main selling point. Even with my smaller, more compact strokes, I got ample topspin when I wanted it. My opponents commented that my serves had more kick than normal. For a purely spin driven player, the Agassi Pro is a legit contender.
Pop
The pop levels are slightly toned down from the Joola 3S, which I always felt was a bit too hot for my style. Still, the Agassi leans on the lively side, so if you prefer a pillow soft or super dampened response, you may find it slightly less forgiving on your short game.
Forgiveness
Shots near the top of the paddle felt consistent, but the lower half can be less forgiving. This is why it is not my personal preference, since my contact point is closer to the handle. For someone else, especially an ex-tennis player who hits higher, that might be perfect.
Maneuverability
The paddle feels balanced yet a bit top heavy. Swinging it through the air is quick, but there is still enough mass at the throat for stability. I found blocking and hand battles comfortable, though it took me a few games to dial in the timing.
Joola Agassi Pro Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Elite spin potential, perfect for big topspin strokes.
- Plenty of power for those who love to drive or attack from the baseline.
- Higher sweet spot rewards tennis style mechanics.
- Stabilized feel thanks to TFP foam and Dual Foam at key spots.
- Visually unique, sparks interest and conversation on the courts.
Cons:
- The high sweet spot can penalize players who strike lower on the face.
- Still a bit too lively for a block, drop and dink heavy game (like mine).
- Top heavy feel might require a learning curve for those new to it.
- Beginners may find it harder to control due to the unusual shape.
- Premium price point around $280, which not everyone will justify.
Player Feedback
I am not alone in my observations. While many ex tennis players I spoke with called the Joola Agassi Pro a dream for their baseline drives, I encountered several rec players who felt the paddle played “hot” if you do not meet the ball high on the face.
“As a former tennis player, I love how it feels more like a tennis racket. My forehand drives are landing deeper with more spin.” — Ryan, 4.5 player with a strong tennis background
“I prefer an all court style, but I struggled at first until I added a bit of tape near the throat. After that, it felt balanced for my net game.” — Laura, advanced rec player
“I rely on dinks and resets, so the shape and sweet spot did not mesh with my style.” — Tony, 4.0 rec player (no tennis background)
These varied experiences show that the Agassi Pro is not one size fits all. If you share my preference for more control in the lower face, it might be a mismatch. If you love spinny drives from a higher strike zone, it is worth a look.
Why the Joola Agassi Pro Might Not Be My Go To Paddle
After a thorough test, I can see why the Agassi Pro is appealing. The spin is top notch, and the shape caters to people who swing fast and strike the ball higher. However, I am not an ex-tennis player. I have no background in racket sports, so my natural contact point is quite different. I play a more measured, drop oriented game and often contact near the lower portion of the paddle. Because of that, I just never felt the sweet spot was where I wanted it.
Compared to the Perseus Pro 4 16mm, the Agassi feels a little more powerful and spin focused, but less user friendly for a non tennis, drop heavy style. The Perseus Pro 4 16mm still fits me much better. The Joola 3S, on the other hand, is too poppy for my tastes, so the Agassi’s pop is not entirely surprising, just less synergy for my game.
Comparable Paddles
- Joola Perseus Pro 4 16mm: Closer to my personal preference, with a sweeter, more centered balance on drops and dinks. Has more raw pop than I’d like, but still more forgiving to a lower-strike approach than the Agassi Pro.
- Joola Perseus 3S (16mm): An older iteration that feels extra springy. Even though the Agassi is also lively, the 3S is so poppy that it takes me time to calibrate my drops.
- Joola Agassi Pro 14mm: Though I have not officially tested the 14mm version, it is rumored to be even more powerful and quick. That likely leans further away from my personal style.
Joola Paddle Comparison Table
| Feature / Characteristic | Joola 3S (16mm, Gen 3) | Joola Agassi Pro | Joola Perseus Pro IV 16mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shape & Design | Traditional elongated shape. Older Gen 3 design, less advanced foam inserts. | Distinct “canoe oar” / tennis-inspired shape; flared top, narrower throat, sweet spot higher on the face. | Standard elongated Perseus Pro 4 shape. Centered sweet spot, more balanced overall. |
| Core & Tech | Uses older Propulsion Core only (no TFP foam). | Propulsion Core + Tech Flex Power (TFP) + Dual Foam inserts; USAP & UPA-A certified. | Propulsion Core + TFP + Dual Foam inserts; USAP & UPA-A certified. |
| Thickness | 16 mm | 16 mm | 16 mm |
| Approx. Stock Weight | ~8.0 oz | ~8.2–8.4 oz | ~8.2–8.4 oz |
| Sweet Spot Location | More centered than older pop-first paddles; smaller than the Pro 4 series. | Higher on the face (near the tip). Best if you strike away from the handle. | Centered, offering a more balanced response across the face. |
| Face / Surface | Raw carbon (Gen 3). Less dwell time vs newer Pro 4 designs. | Raw carbon (Pro 4). Extended dwell time, excellent spin. | Raw carbon (Pro 4). Extended dwell time, strong spin (slightly less extreme than Agassi). |
| Spin Potential | Moderate spin, overshadowed by the Pro 4’s improved grip. | Excellent to “elite” spin generation; among the best for topspin. | Very high spin, though slightly less than the Agassi’s extreme. |
| Power / Pop | Very poppy / springy; can feel borderline “too hot” at times. | Strong power but slightly toned down vs Perseus Pro 4; lively, especially near the top. | Higher raw power and trampoline effect; can still control if you strike the sweet spot. |
| Control & Soft Game | Short dwell time; resets/dinks can be trickier to master. | Good control once you adjust to the high sweet spot. Dwell time helps with drops and dinks. | Very balanced for drops, dinks, and drives; friendly for a range of playing styles. |
| Forgiveness / Sweet Spot Size | Smaller sweet spot; off-center hits lose power/control. | Generous if you strike higher; lower face is less forgiving. | Larger sweet spot than older Gen 3 designs; stable across broader contact areas. |
| Maneuverability / Swing Weight | Feels quick and somewhat head-light; works well for big drivers. | ~117 swing weight; many feel it swings faster than Perseus due to balance point. | ~118 swing weight; stable in hand but can feel head-heavy. |
| Dwell Time & Touch | Shorter dwell time, emphasizes pop over softness. | High dwell time near top of face; fosters more spin & pocketing feel. | Longer dwell time than Gen 3; balanced for power and softer shots. |
| Customization | Not typically foam-based around edges; can add lead to edges if desired. | Often uses lead/tungsten tape at the throat/upward to enhance solidity without much extra head weight. | Many players add lead/tungsten tape around edges for fine-tuning. |
| Ideal Player Type | Players who want a power paddle with decent spin. Less ideal for heavy drop/reset stylists. | Ex-tennis or aggressive players wanting top-tier spin & a higher contact point. | All-around players seeking a versatile blend of power & control. |
| Overall Feel | Hot, lively, narrower margin for error on soft shots. | Top-heavy but very rewarding for spin & power if you strike near the tip. | Balanced, stable “workhorse” that excels in multiple shot types. |
| Reviewer Consensus | “Older generation rocket” – big pop, smaller sweet spot, short dwell time. | “Unique shape, ideal for tennis-like mechanics; can punish lower-face hits but offers huge spin upside.” | “Versatile across all shots; good option for balanced offense and defense.” |
| MSRP / Price | Varies | $280 (Pro 4 series). | $280 (Pro 4 series). |
Quick Takeaways
1. Joola 3S (16mm)
- Strengths: High pop, reasonable spin, lighter feel. Excellent for drive-heavy players who like a lively face.
- Weaknesses: Smaller sweet spot, can feel too “hot,” demands precise contact.
- Best For: Attackers who don’t mind a shorter dwell time and want immediate power.
2. Joola Agassi Pro (16mm)
- Strengths: Elite spin potential, higher sweet spot, strong for tennis like mechanics and big swings.
- Weaknesses: Top-heavy feel can require a learning curve; less forgiving on lower face hits.
- Best For: Aggressive players (often ex-tennis) who crave powerful drives, spin, and a shape that rewards higher contact.
3. Joola Perseus Pro 4 (16mm)
- Strengths: Excellent blend of power and control, large sweet spot, stable, user-friendly.
- Weaknesses: Might feel slightly head heavy for some; spin not quite as extreme as the Agassi.
- Best For: All court players who value balanced performance in both the soft game (drops, dinks) and power drives.
Joola Agassi Pro Q&A
Yes, it has both USAP and UPA-A approvals, so you can use it in any sanctioned event.
It has similar liveliness but focuses more on spin than raw pop. If you found the 3S too bouncy, the Agassi might still feel pretty lively, but it’s shape could offer better stability if you strike higher.
It is possible, but the paddle’s unique design and top heavy balance may be more comfortable for intermediate or advanced players with a strong mechanical foundation.
Best suited for: Intermediate to advanced players with a strong drive/spin game. Beginners may find the high sweet spot less forgiving.
If you crave spin and big swinging power, especially if you are an ex-tennis player, you might love how it channels those tennis like mechanics.
In the end, the Joola Agassi Pro’s distinctive shape and higher sweet spot simply were not a seamless match for my defensive oriented style and lower contact preference. It showcases excellent spin, surprisingly strong power, and plenty of top heavy punch, traits that tennis players or fans of aggressive drives will adore. As someone who values a more forgiving, centered strike zone, I found more compatibility with paddles like the Perseus Pro 4 16mm. However, I appreciate how the Agassi Pro expands what is possible in paddle design. If your game gravitates toward higher impact shots or you draw on a tennis like background, this innovation just might elevate your play in a way few other paddles can.
