At this level, every gram counts. Partnering with Thomas Leygue at the London P1, Belgian golfer Clément Geens recently revealed a peculiarity that hasn't gone unnoticed by enthusiasts: a very unusual way of gripping the ball. A choice far from aesthetically pleasing, but dictated by the pursuit of very precise feel. 

An installation to save… a few grams

Looking at his racket, it's hard not to be surprised. Clément Geens doesn't completely cover the handle with his grip and overgrip, deliberately leaving part of the handle uncovered.

An unusual configuration, which the Belgian number 1 himself explained:

"I don't advise anyone to do it like me. It's very personal and everyone has to find their own way of preparing their racket."

The goal is not to improve grip, but to modify the balance of the paddle.

A lighter racket in the hand, heavier in the head

Geens is primarily looking for a very specific sensation.

Why doesn't Clément Geens use his grip like the others?
MALAGA P1 Photo silvestreszpylma Premier Padel
Why doesn't Clément Geens use his grip like the others?
MALAGA P1 Photo silvestreszpylma Premier Padel

"I like very light rackets, but with a little more weight in the head. By not using the full grip or overgrip, I save about five or six grams on the handle. Then, depending on the racket, I sometimes add a little more weight to the head."

By removing a few grams from the bottom of the racket, the center of gravity naturally shifts towards the head. The result is a paddle that feels more maneuverable in the hand, while retaining more inertia during offensive shots.

Another detail: this configuration is more than enough for him since he only uses the space necessary to place his right hand on the handle.

Why doesn't Clément Geens use his grip like the others?

At the highest level, nothing is left to chance

This setting may seem anecdotal, but it perfectly illustrates the level of expectation of professional players.

Racket weight, balance, number of overgrips, handle thickness… every detail is carefully considered to achieve the feel best suited to the player's game. Two players using the exact same racket model can therefore develop radically different playing styles.

Clément Geens himself points this out:

"I don't recommend that people do the same. Everyone has to find what works for them."

Further proof that at the highest level, performance sometimes comes down to… five grams.

Maceo ZERHAT

Maceo Zerhat discovered padel in 2020 in Savigny-sur-Clairis, Burgundy. He contributed to the club's expansion by bringing his energy and curiosity. Padel Magazinehe transmits his Padel"mania" by skillfully bouncing on all the latest news about your favorite sport!

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