Changes to the ATP Ranking Points System

In Tennis Race for History (TRH), we've consistently held the view that the ATP Ranking point system allocates too few points to finalists, semifinalists, etc., in comparison to the champions of each tournament. This was the primary impetus behind creating our method to assess tennis players' careers.In our historical ranking, we evaluate not only the titles but also the points achieved in each tournament.

 

 With the revised point system set for 2024, the ATP is aligning itself more closely with this criterion by increasing points for finalists, semifinalists, quarterfinalists, and so forth.The WTA had already been a trailblazer in this regard, as its assessment showed less disparity between different rounds. Now, sensibly, the ATP is modifying its point system in that direction.

 

We've always stressed the importance of judging each player by comparing them with their contemporaries, making it challenging to draw comparisons across different eras. We've created a system involving scoring everyone each year, akin to the current scoring method, standardizing tournaments by categories. We have now adapted our historical ranking to the new system.

 

As anticipated, the result primarily benefits players who have won many matches and reached the highest rounds of each tournament without clinching the title. Consequently, there have been some minor changes. While not substantial, players like David Ferrer and Tomáš Berdych (the latter rising from 11th to 9th) experience a proportionate increase in points, bringing partial justice to their careers.

 

However, the podium remains unchanged, even though the difference in points have reduced. Novak Djokovic remains untouchable at the moment. It would be challenging for Rafael Nadal to continue his career long enough to bridge the current gap, especially considering Djokovic's excellent form and that he is a year younger than the Spaniard.

 

In the meantime, we'll have to wait 10 or 15 years to see what happens with the likes of Alcaraz, Sinner, Rune, and other players from their generation.

 

The following tables highlight the main changes brought about by the new method in comparison to the old one, followed by the WTA points system for reference.

 

And finally the top 30 in the Tennis Race for History Ranking, highlighting the changes in points and percentage of gain for each player.