🎾 The Science of Strings – Understanding and Choosing with the MATCHEUR® Range

Strings represent more than half of what you actually feel when hitting a tennis ball.Yet, most players still choose their strings based on habit, brand reputation, or trends.

MATCHEUR® introduces a rational, measurable approach to string selection — built on real, physical data.Each model in the range is evaluated according to three key parameters: elasticity, linear density, and geometric structure.These objective values make it possible to classify strings from N°0 (the softest and most comfortable) to N°10 (the firmest and most precise).A simple, transparent, and scientifically consistent system.

1. Understanding the Physical Parameters of a String

Elasticity – The Key to Comfort and Power

Elasticity measures how much a string stretches on impact.It’s expressed as a percentage of elongation and directly affects both comfort and power.

• High elasticity (as found in N°0 to N°2) means the ball stays on the strings longer. The string stores and then releases energy, producing easy depth and a softer feel.

• Low elasticity (N°8 to N°10) gives a shorter, crisper contact, prioritizing stability and precision over comfort.

👉 Example:MATCHEUR N°0 (17.8% elongation) delivers a soft, arm-friendly response, ideal for players seeking comfort.MATCHEUR N°10 (6.4%) provides immediate response and surgical precision.

Linear Density – The Hidden Weight of the String

Linear density (in g/m) refers to the mass of the string per meter.It influences the racket’s stability, inertia, and feel at impact.

• Lower density → a livelier string bed, faster racquet-head speed, and a more dynamic response.

• Higher density → greater stability, consistency, and directional control under heavy impact.

Elasticity and density together define what we call a string’s energy profile — its ability to either store or absorb the player’s energy.

Structure – The Shape That Defines the Feel

The geometry of a string greatly affects grip, control, and durability.

• Round profile → linear, predictable response; ideal for control and consistency.

• Octagonal or hexagonal profile → enhanced bite on the ball and improved spin potential.

• Twisted profile → more friction and spin with a lively feel.

• Multifilament → maximum comfort, vibration absorption, and a natural touch.

👉 Examples from the range:N°0 – round multifilament for maximum softness.N°5 – octagonal for controlled spin.N°10 – hexagonal for the ultimate in control and rigidity.

2. The Scientific Logic Behind the MATCHEUR® Range

The MATCHEUR system follows a clear, measurable scale.Each number corresponds to real values of elasticity and linear density, allowing for a perfectly consistent progression from comfort to control.As the number increases, the string becomes firmer, more stable, and more precise.

N°	Type	Structure	Elasticity (%)	Primary Feel
0	Multifilament	Round	17.8	Total comfort
1	Extra-soft monofilament	Rough	21.6	Smooth power
2	Soft monofilament	Rough	15.9	Balanced spin/power
3	Soft monofilament	Octo	12.9	Controlled liveliness
4	Balanced monofilament	Round	9.1	Neutral response
5	Firm monofilament	Octo	8.7	Stability and spin
6	Firm monofilament	Octo	7.6	Dynamic precision
7	Firm monofilament	Round	8.0	Linear control
8	Dense monofilament	Round	7.6	Solid tolerance
9	Rigid monofilament	Round	7.6	Absolute stability
10	Rigid monofilament	Hexa	6.4	Extreme control

This numeric classification replaces vague marketing labels.It allows each player to identify scientifically which string stiffness and feel best fit their technique and frame.

3. How to Interpret the Data

Power and Elasticity

Power is linked to string deformation and dwell time — the time the ball stays on the strings.A more elastic stringbed transfers more energy back to the ball.

Simplified formula:Power ≈ 1 / √(stringbed stiffness)

A softer string (like N°1 or N°2) helps generate depth effortlessly,while a firmer string (like N°9 or N°10) favors precision and a flatter trajectory.

Control and Density

Control is directly related to the string’s density and its ability to resist deformation.A denser stringbed stabilizes the impact and provides a uniform response across the sweet spot.Players with powerful strokes or flatter trajectories benefit most from dense, stable strings.

Spin and Structure

Shaped strings — octagonal, hexagonal, or rough — increase friction between the ball and the string.This added grip enhances spin potential and trajectory lift.However, more friction also means greater deformation, which is why balancing stiffness and geometry is essential for long-term consistency.

4. Choosing Your MATCHEUR® String

Player Type	Recommended Models	Main Objective
Comfort & arm protection	N°0 → N°2	Softness and easy power
All-court / moderate spin	N°3 → N°5	Balanced spin and control
Competitive precision	N°6 → N°8	Stability and consistency
Advanced / flat hitters	N°9 → N°10	Maximum control and precision

This simple scale lets you match your string not only to your playing style,but also to your racquet type, string tension, and desired feedback.

5. Tension – The Hidden Tuning Tool

Tension directly affects stringbed stiffness and feel.

• Higher tension (24–25 kg) → more control, less power, crisper response.

• Medium tension (22–23 kg) → ideal balance of comfort and accuracy.

• Lower tension (20–21 kg) → greater depth, forgiveness, and comfort.

Adjusting tension allows players to fine-tune their setup without changing the string model.A flexible string like N°2 gains precision at 23 kg,while a rigid one like N°9 feels smoother around 21.5 kg.The goal is to maintain a consistent feel across different racquets and setups.

6. MATCHEUR® – Turning Science into Sensation

MATCHEUR® is more than a string range — it’s a scientific reading system for feel.Each number corresponds to measured and reproducible values, allowing players to think like true racquet technicians: observe, test, compare, and adjust.

From the comfort and energy return of N°0 to the absolute precision of N°10,the progression is logical, measurable, and repeatable.This is where data meets sensation — a bridge between science and performance.

With MATCHEUR®, choosing your string finally becomes simple, rational, and truly personal.