Dunlop Sports has announced its new partnership with current world number 6, Nikolay Davydenko. According to Dunlop this includes racquet (see ya Prince -- who actually never sponsored ND), clothing (buh bye Airness) and accessories. I was wondering why this guy wasn't getting more sponsor love. He's a hot one.
Barry Leach, MD of Dunlop Sport said: “We are delighted to announce Nikolay as a Dunlop brand ambassador and believe he is one of the most exciting talents in tennis." I fully agree. His racquet choice has not been announced yet. According to the company..."he's testing right now." Maybe we'll see at Indian Wells.
Dunlop’s 'aerogel’ is known for its claim as one of the lightest and strongest materials in existence. In 2009, Dunlop was the first manufacturer to incorporate 4 directional braided materials into tennis rackets when launching the 4D range. The new technology complimented the power of aerogel by enhancing frame stability and control.
For 2010 Dunlop has refined the aerogel 4D rackets and has introduced key models to complete the range. The aerogel 4D series now features racquets for all player levels. Pictured left is the Aerogel 4D 2HUNDRED, $199 USD the current choice of Tomas Berdych. This is the iconic Dunlop player frame, a heavier frame, designed for use by tournament and advanced players.
Other aerogel models the Dunlop team players are using include:
Tommy Robredo, 4D 3HUNDRED, $199; Dominika Cibulkova, 4D SUPER-LITE, $179; James Blake and Juergen Melzer 4D 3HUNDRED TOUR, $199; Jamie Murray, Ross Hutchins and Nicolas Almagro, 4D 5HUNDRED TOUR, $179.
Take a look at detailed racquet specs to determine which racquet might be best for your level of play. I'll let you know what Davydenko decides on.
Learn more at Dunlop or test drive and buy at Tennis-Warehouse.
Please see the comments below this article for new information as it comes in...
There is a little controversy brewing over this Dunlop contract. Prince has announced that they actually have a racquet contract with Davydenko in place for 2010. According to Prince:
"Davydenko has made no secret his affinity for his Prince racquet and the Company’s patented O-technology...His inspired play has been well documented as of late...
On January 18, 2010, Prince and Davydenko agreed to, and announced, a formal deal to have the 28 year-old Russian continue to use and promote Prince racquets and racquet bags exclusively throughout the year and to utilize him in marketing and promotional initiatives."
Looking forward to see how this plays out!
Posted by: Tennisidentity | March 17, 2010 at 10:48 AM
As of April 1, Dunlop confirms that: "Davydenko has indeed signed for Dunlop" He has not yet chosen his Dunlop racquet model.
Posted by: Tennisidentity | April 02, 2010 at 03:36 PM