Yonex MUSE 98 Spec-Based Review (2026)
When Yonex releases a new frame, the tennis world usually prepares for another evolution of the EZONE’s power or the VCORE’s spin. However, with the Yonex MUSE 98, we are looking at something that feels a bit more “boutique”—a racquet that prioritizes a unique blend of “Forgiving Control.” Wrapped in a stunning Pearl Silver aesthetic, the MUSE 98 isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a technical tool designed for players who want the precision of a 98-square-inch head without the punishing stiffness often associated with player’s frames.
Let’s dive deep into the specs, the technology, and how this racquet actually performs on the dirt or the hard courts.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
Before we talk about the “soul” of the racquet, let’s look at the “skeleton.” The MUSE 98 sits in that “sweet spot” weight category that appeals to everyone from advanced juniors to seasoned club veterans.
| Feature | Specification |
| Head Size | 98 sq.in. |
| Weight | 305 g / 10.8 oz (Unstrung) |
| Balance Point | 315 mm (Head Light) |
| Beam Width | 24 mm – 24 mm – 18 mm |
| String Pattern | 16 x 18 |
| Material | HM Graphite / Servo Filter / VDM |
| Length | 27 in. |
| Made In | China |
The Design: More Than Just “Pearl Silver”
The first thing you notice is the color. The Pearl Silver finish gives the MUSE 98 a premium, almost ethereal look. It stands out in a sea of neon and matte blacks. But the real magic is in the geometry.
With a beam that tapers from a relatively thick 24 mm at the shoulders down to a very thin 18 mm at the throat, this racquet is a “hybrid” in the truest sense. The thicker hoop provides stability and a bit of punch, while the thin shaft allows for the flex and feel that “feel players” crave.
Core Technologies: The Yonex Edge
1. ISOMETRIC™: The Signature Square
Yonex hasn’t messed with perfection here. The ISOMETRIC head shape is still the star of the show. By squaring off the corners of the frame, Yonex increases the length of the main and cross strings, effectively expanding the sweet spot by 7%. On a 98 sq.in. frame, this is a lifesaver. It makes the MUSE 98 feel more like a 100 sq.in. racquet when you’re stretched wide, but retains the pinpoint accuracy of a 98 when you find the center.
2. Uniform Impact Grommets
This is a fascinating “World First” for Yonex. Usually, grommets are just holes in the frame, but here, they’ve engineered Straight Grommet Holes on all four corners. By merging two grommet holes into one at the corners, the strings have more room to move.
- The Result: A much more uniform response. Whether you hit the ball dead-center or slightly toward the tip, the string bed reacts consistently, reducing that “jarring” feeling on off-center hits.
3. Energy Flow Shaft
This is where the MUSE 98 gets its “forgiving control” reputation. The shaft has an indented profile specifically engineered to balance stiffness and flex. Despite being thin (18 mm), it doesn’t feel “noodly.” It conducts energy efficiently, ensuring that the power you put into the swing actually reaches the ball, while the Servo Filter and VDM (Vibration Dampening Mesh) soak up the harsh frequencies.
On-Court Performance
Groundstrokes: Controlled Aggression
Hitting with the MUSE 98 is an exercise in confidence. The 16 x 18 string pattern is relatively open for a 98-inch head, which means two things: Spin and Depth. Because the balance is quite head-light (315 mm), the racquet is incredibly easy to whip through the contact zone. You can generate heavy topspin to keep the ball deep in the court, but when you want to flatten out a forehand for a winner, the 18 mm shaft provides enough feedback to let you know exactly where the ball is going. It’s a very “connected” feel.
Volleys: The Surgeon’s Scalpel
At the net, the MUSE 98 shines. The head-light balance makes it lightning-fast during quick reflex volleys. The Servo Filter technology really proves its worth here; even against heavy hitters, the racquet feels stable and plush. You can drop a short volley with touch or punch a deep volley with precision.
Serves: Speed and Snap
If you’re a player who relies on a “slice” or “kick” serve, you will love the maneuverability here. The MUSE 98 snaps through the air effortlessly. While it might not have the raw “plow-through” of a 330g heavy-spec racquet, the head speed you can generate more than makes up for it in terms of serve percentage and placement.
Who is this racquet for?
The Yonex MUSE 98 is perfect for:
- The Intermediate/Advanced All-Court Player: You want a racquet that supports your variety—dropshots, lobs, and heavy drives.
- The “Feel” Specialist: If you find modern power racquets too stiff or “dead,” the MUSE 98’s flex will be a breath of fresh air.
- The Transitioning Junior: At 305g, it’s the perfect weight for a competitive junior moving into their first “adult” performance frame.
Recommended Strings
To get the most out of this frame, Yonex suggests:
- POLYTOUR PRO: For the player who wants a controlled, durable feel.
- POLYTOUR REV: For those who want maximum “snap-back” and spin.
- REXIS COMFORT: For players who prioritize arm-friendliness and a soft, “pillowy” feel.
MUSE 98 vs. Pure Aero 98 & Blade 98
When looking at the Yonex MUSE 98 alongside the Babolat Pure Aero 98 and the Wilson Blade 98, we are comparing three of the most precise “player’s frames” on the market. While they share the same head size and unstrung weight, they offer very different “personalities” on the court.
Here is how they stack up side-by-side:
Spec Comparison Table
| Feature | Yonex MUSE 98 | Wilson Blade 98 (v9) | Babolat Pure Aero 98 |
| Head Size | 98 sq.in. | 98 sq.in. | 98 sq.in. |
| Weight (Unstrung) | 305 g | 305 g | 305 g |
| Balance | 315 mm (8 pts HL) | 320 mm (7 pts HL) | 315 mm (8 pts HL) |
| String Pattern | 16 x 18 (Open/Spin) | 16 x 19 (Classic) | 16 x 20 (Controlled Spin) |
| Beam Width | 24mm / 24mm / 18mm | 20.6 mm (Flat) | 21mm / 23mm / 22mm |
| Focus | Forgiving Control & Feel | Ultimate Feel & Precision | Aggressive Spin & Power |
MUSE 98 vs. Wilson Blade 98: The “Feel” Battle
The Blade 98 is the gold standard for many competitive players who want a “connected” feel to the ball.
- The Difference: The Blade uses a consistent 20.6 mm beam, which gives it a very uniform, classic flex. The MUSE 98, however, has that ultra-thin 18 mm throat paired with a thicker 24 mm hoop.
- The Result: The MUSE 98 will likely feel more “whippy” and faster through the air than the Blade. While the Blade is the “surgeon’s scalpel,” the MUSE 98 is more of a “modern hybrid”—it gives you that thin-beam flex in the shaft but adds a bit more stability and “pop” from the head. Plus, the MUSE’s 16 x 18 pattern is more open than the Blade’s 16 x 19, making it easier to find depth and height over the net.
MUSE 98 vs. Babolat Pure Aero 98: Precision vs. Weaponry
The Pure Aero 98 (the frame used by Carlos Alcaraz) is built for the aggressive baseliner who wants to hurt their opponent with heavy, spinning shots.
- The Difference: The Aero 98 has a more aerodynamic, stiffer beam designed to maximize swing speed and “snap.” It uses a 16 x 20 pattern to keep that power under control.
- The Result: If you enjoy the raw “kick” and “bite” of the Yonex VCORE 100, the Pure Aero 98 will feel like its more precise, professional cousin. The MUSE 98 is much more dampened and plush by comparison. While the Aero 98 “pushes” the ball with explosive energy, the MUSE 98 “cradles” the ball, giving you more time to feel the shot before it leaves the strings.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose the MUSE 98 if: You love the maneuverability of a head-light racquet and want a frame that feels soft on the arm but still allows you to “rip” the ball thanks to that open 16 x 18 pattern. It is arguably the most “forgiving” of these three.
- Choose the Blade 98 if: You are a traditionalist who wants zero “gimmicks” and maximum feedback. You want to feel every vibration of the ball to gauge your depth and accuracy.
- Choose the Pure Aero 98 if: Your game is built on “heavy” tennis. You want the ball to explode off the court after the bounce and you have the full, fast swings required to tame a stiffer frame.
Final Verdict
The Yonex MUSE 98 is a masterclass in balance. It bridges the gap between the “old school” feel of a thin-beamed control racquet and the “new school” forgiveness of an Isometric sweet spot. It’s forgiving without being “mushy” and precise without being “punishing.” Plus, let’s be honest—it’s probably the best-looking racquet in your local club’s pro shop right now.
