Topps, the iconic name in the trading card industry, is making a bold move by diving into the world of tennis with its latest offering, Topps Graphite Tennis. This new line is set to debut on December 18, 2024, marking the company’s first foray into a sport that has often been overshadowed in the trading card hobby.
The choice of the name “Graphite” is a clever nod to the material that is synonymous with professional tennis racquets, infusing a touch of science into the product. Departing from the traditional Superfractor, Topps Graphite Tennis introduces the 1/1 Red Crystalline Refractor, drawing inspiration from graphite’s crystalline structure. This unique twist aligns perfectly with the sport’s reputation for cutting-edge technology and innovation.
Topps Graphite Tennis features a diverse 200-card base checklist, showcasing emerging talents like Mirra Andreeva and Ben Shelton. Each hobby box guarantees three hits, with one relic autograph and an extra autograph included. The set also includes signatures from tennis legends such as Andre Agassi, Bjorn Borg, Pete Sampras, Billie Jean King, and Chris Evert, elevating the product’s appeal to both avid collectors and tennis enthusiasts.
Priced at $149.99, each Topps Graphite Tennis hobby box contains 20 cards. Common Refractors are distributed at approximately one per four packs, while the rarer parallels, such as Aqua, Green, Blue, Gold, Pink, and White, along with the ultra-exclusive Red Crystalline variant, are limited to 200 copies or fewer. The insert lineup embraces the elemental theme, with highlights like the Active Metal and All Metal cards crafted from genuine metal. The most coveted insert, the Intricate Images, boasts a portrait-style design and stands as the ultimate chase card for collectors.
Topps Graphite Tennis stands out as a groundbreaking release that expands the company’s portfolio into the realm of tennis, offering a product that seamlessly blends science, sports, and sophisticated design. While its success in the market remains to be seen, the buzz surrounding this innovative venture is undeniable within the trading card community. With Topps Graphite Tennis, the company is serving up a fresh take on sports collectibles that is sure to make a lasting impact.
