Stringing at a Professional Tournament | Porsche Grand Prix 2025 |
This April, Unstrung Customs’ very own Nikki Roenn had the privilege of stringing rackets for the world’s top WTA players at the Porsche Grand Prix WTA 500 in Stuttgart—one of the premier indoor events on the women’s tour.
From high-tension power setups to feather-light finesse configurations, Nikki saw it all. In this post, we’re taking you behind the scenes of professional tennis stringing—with unique insights into the preferences of elite players and what a typical day on-site looks like.
The Art of Stringing at the Highest Level
Stringing for pros is a whole different world—precision, consistency, and timing are everything. During the Porsche Grand Prix, Nikki worked on dozens of rackets each day, each tailored to the unique style and strategy of a different player.
Here are a couple of standout requests from the tournament:
Ulrikke Eikeri – 42kg String Tension
One of the most extreme setups of the week, Ulrikke requested a jaw-dropping 42 kilograms of tension.
That kind of tight string bed offers maximum control, perfect for her aggressive, fast-paced game.
It’s uncommon—even at the pro level—but when done right, it creates a completely different feel on contact.
Laura Siegemund – 12kg String Tension
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Laura Siegemund opted for just 12 kilograms —an ultra-loose setup that provides tons of feel and spin potential.
However this lower tension does pose challenges with controlling the ball.
These preferences show just how personal racket setup truly is at this level.
There's no one-size-fits-all—every player knows exactly what works for their game, and it's up to the stringer to deliver it with absolute precision.
A Day in the Life: Stringing at the Porsche Grand Prix
Ever wondered what a professional stringer’s day looks like during a top-tier event? Here’s a glimpse into Nikki’s daily routine on-site in Stuttgart:
8:20 AM – Early Arrival
The stringing team arrives before players hit the practice courts. Rackets from the previous evening are already waiting—each labeled with player names, string types, tension specs, and stringing patterns.
9:00 AM – The Flow Begins
As the players warm up, requests start flowing in—some urgent, some routine. It’s all about speed and accuracy. Pros will have 2-6 rackets per match to play, and 1 or 2 for practice. Its our job to make sure they’re all ready to go.
Midday – Peak Hours
It’s non-stop. Machines are running. Rackets are being mounted, woven, knotted, stenciled. Every string tension and cross weave must be flawless.
During this time, there's also plenty of communication with team coaches, players, and equipment reps—ensuring every racket meets spec.
Late Evening – Wrapping Up
The last of the match-day stringing is done, but tomorrow’s work has already begun. Nikki preps for the next day, organizes the workbench, and ensures machines are calibrated and spotless.
Behind the Scenes with Unstrung Customs
What makes experiences like this special isn't just the volume or intensity—it’s the insight. Every day brings a new story, a new preference, a new challenge. For Unstrung Customs, it’s a reminder of why we’re so passionate about custom stringing and racket tuning.
Working at this level keeps us sharp—and helps us bring tour-level expertise back to every customer we work with around the world.
Whether you're a weekend warrior, an aspiring junior, or a seasoned pro, we use the same standards, tools, and techniques we brought to Stuttgart, right here in the Unstrung Customs workshop.
Want to Learn How to String Like the Pros?
If Nikki’s story has inspired you, check out our online stringing course—designed for beginners, parents, and future pros alike. You'll learn everything from machine setup to advanced techniques like hybrid stringing and one-piece patterns.
Explore the Course Now – Start learning at your own pace, with guidance from the experts behind some of the best players in the game.
Bonus: Follow Us Behind the Scenes
Check out our Instagram @UnstrungCustoms for exclusive photos and videos from Stuttgart—including some of the standout rackets, stencils, and stringing setups used during the event.
