WTN Rating Enhancements
The latest enhancements to the World Tennis Number (WTN) are delivering an even more dynamic and player-focused rating system for our global tennis community.
The updates have been introduced following feedback from players, coaches and national associations, helping ensure ratings better reflect current playing level, match performance and player development.
The enhancements include game-level scoring within sets, a rolling three-year ratings period, improved modelling of player development and a gradual rating decay mechanism for inactive players. Together, these changes strengthen WTN's ability to create fair and meaningful competition at every level of the game.
Every game now counts
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of game-level scoring. Previously, ratings were calculated at set level, meaning a 6-0 set was treated the same as a 6-4 set.
Now, every game contributes to the rating calculation, providing a more accurate reflection of how competitive a match was. Players who perform strongly in close contests will see this better reflected in their ratings.
Ratings that better reflect current playing level
WTN ratings now operate on a rolling three-year period. This means older results will gradually fall out of the calculation over time, ensuring ratings place greater emphasis on more recent performances and provide a better reflection of a player's current level.
The enhancements also include improved modelling of player development, helping ratings adapt more effectively to a player's current level as their game develops over time.
Supporting rating accuracy during periods of inactivity
A gradual rating decay mechanism has also been introduced for inactive players. This enhancement helps ensure ratings remain an accurate reflection of current playing level, particularly where a player has not competed for an extended period.
Positive feedback from the tennis community
"I received an email yesterday explaining that WTN will now count every game within a set, rather than simply counting a set win or loss. Isn't this a great step forward? I’m really pleased to see this change finally being introduced, as it provides a fairer reflection of performance and player development."
What does this mean for my rating?
Following the introduction of these enhancements, some players may see their WTN move up or down. The amount of movement will vary depending on an individual's playing history, recent activity and how previous results are evaluated within the enhanced model.
The updates are designed to improve the overall accuracy and fairness of ratings over time, helping players find more competitive and meaningful matches.
If you have questions about your WTN or how your rating has changed, please contact our support team.
World Tennis will continue to monitor performance and gather feedback as WTN evolves to better reflect true match performance, support player development and encourage competitive effort on court.
