For five years, the Astrox 100 ZZ was simply the best attacking racquet you could buy. Then in September 2025, Yonex replaced it with the Viktor Axelsen VA Edition — and the original's secondary market price jumped over 40% in six months.

The launch: March 2020

Yonex introduced the AX100ZZ as the pinnacle of their Astrox power series — the slimmest shaft in Yonex history, a solid graphite core, and a refined Rotational Generator System. The initial Dark Navy colorway launched at $290 USD.

The Kurenai factor

In late 2022, Yonex released the Kurenai — a striking matte red with Asia-weighted distribution. Not a limited edition, but its selective availability created a perception of scarcity. The Kurenai commands a 10-20% premium over the Dark Navy.

What happened in 2025

At the All England Open, Axelsen unveiled the VA Edition. Our tracked data: $280-310 in early 2025, climbing to $420 by June, spiking to $500-520 after the September launch, then settling around $450-490. Roughly 65% increase from pre-announcement.

Why the original holds value

Playing feel differs (Volume Cut Resin changes the shaft response), the original is Made in Japan with pre-VA construction, and the AX100ZZ's five-year run coincided with Axelsen's Olympic golds — the racquet is associated with an era.

Authentication

Hologram shifts color when tilted. Hyper Slim Shaft visibly thinner than any other Yonex. 'Made in Japan' stamp clean and precise. Weight 83g ±2g (4U) or 88g ±2g (3U).

Outlook

For players wanting backup: buy now. For collectors: Kurenai 3U in original packaging is the variant to target.

Verified prices last updated Apr 2026. All data based on tracked secondary market transactions.