Published on March 26, 2026
Andre Agassi’s longtime racket stringer, Roman Prokes, recently shared insights into his journey and experiences in the competitive world of professional tennis stringing. In a candid microinterview with The Believer, Prokes reflects on how he began his career and the crucial role he played in enhancing players’ experiences on the court.
Prokes started his career working for Jay Schwartz, stringing rackets at various tournaments, including the Australian Open. “We would set up in a hotel room and string privately for players,” he recalls, noting a roster of high-profile clients including the Woodies and Wally Masur, along with future coaching luminaries like Albert Costa and Àlex Corretja. Over time, Agassi sought a more personalized approach, eventually fostering a strong working relationship.
What sets Prokes apart from others in his field? He attributes his success to a blend of traditional craftsmanship and attentive listening. “When you do something, you have to do it right. It has to be perfect,” he emphasizes, referring to the “old world” upbringing he shares with his Austrian wife. A pivotal lesson in his early career came from a Wall Street gentleman with a passion for tennis. Prokes learned the importance of truly hearing what players are experiencing, rather than dismissing their concerns outright. This shift in perspective helped him make pivotal adjustments that earned him player satisfaction and, ultimately, success in his craft.
Listening is fundamental in Prokes’ approach because he recognizes that players may struggle to articulate their needs. “Players often come to you feeling like their racket is too heavy,” he states, “but it’s not. It’s essential to translate what they’re feeling.” This empathetic understanding allows him to connect with athletes and address their specific needs, effectively bridging the gap between technical knowledge and personal sensation.
Prokes has made numerous observations over the years regarding stringing. He notes that perceptions of weight and tightness often have more to do with grip size or racket design than the actual string tension. “A big grip gets really bulky, so people say ‘heavy,’” he explains. Furthermore, he highlights how players might interpret “tight” strings as an issue, when in fact, it could stem from a lack of “pocketing” in the racket design. Often, these subtleties of perception can lead to misunderstandings about a racket’s performance.
Among the players he has serviced, Prokes cites Petr Korda as the most perceptive when it comes to racket feel. Korda’s ability to detect minute weight differentials was uncanny, allowing him to discern the slightest changes that most would overlook. “He could close his eyes, pick up the racket, and say, ‘No, no, yes,’” Prokes shares, illustrating Korda’s exceptional talent and dedication to the nuances of racket performance. This level of attentiveness has been a hallmark of Prokes’ work, ensuring that players receive equipment suited to their precise requirements.
In Prokes’ view, the world of professional racket stringing is a blend of art and science, where listening and adapting to players’ needs is as essential as traditional techniques. His thoughtful approach exemplifies the deep connection between player and equipment, underscoring the significance of craftsmanship in the pursuit of excellence within the sport.