WTN AS A RATING SYSTEM
A ranking is based on the results that a player achieves in tournaments within a given time frame (typically a rolling 52-week period). The focus is on how far the player goes within the tournament and the level of the tournament. A player only receives points if they win a match and go on to the next round. Furthermore, only the outcome of the match matters and not how close the match was. A ranking is the comparative position of a player within a particular category of players, for example Girls under 12 age category.
A rating is based on who a player competes against and the outcome of the match. Each set won in the match counts towards a player’s rating (even if they lose the match). Ratings use the same scale for all players regardless of gender, age, or ability. A rating identifies the level of a player.
The NTRP in Canada is a self-assessment tool that allows a players to identify their tennis skill level on a scale between 1 and 7. The WTN is an algorithm that uses sophisticated calculations on previous match data to determine a player’s level of play on a scale between 40 and 1.
No, however with some match play the WTN algorithm will be able to assign an accurate ratings to a players. Eventually the WTN will play a big role in finding level-based play.
UTR is a 3rd party standalone provider that uses selected data from a variety of nations to run tennis ratings. The ratings are primarily focused on high performance players.
WTN is crafted by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and was developed in collaboration with top tennis federations (including Tennis Canada) to provide dynamic ratings based on data shared from the federations. WTN was developed to serve all federations and provide a single system for players of all levels, and to create a global tennis playing community for players and federations alike. UTR and WTN use different data sets and their algorithms differ.
GETTING STARTED WITH WTN
Anyone who is above the age of 10 or will be turning 10-years old this year is eligible to receive a WTN.
The global WTN site has an additional WTN feature called Game zONe. Game zONe will provides players with a WTN range. By choosing opponents from within the Game zONe range, a players can help determine the type of match they may have. For example, choosing an opponent at the lower end (higher WTN) of an indicated Game zONe will lead to an easier match, towards the middle unpredictable, and at the higher end (lower WTN), a more challenging match. This is a valuable tool when a player is considering how they want to continue to develop their game.
WTN – ACCURACY AND CALCULATIONS
The WTN algorithm uses match results from 2016 onwards to calculate a player’s number. When players compete, it analyzes the pre-match rating of both players. The algorithm then predicts what it thinks the outcome of the match will be. A player’s WTNs will change depending on the actual match score and how it compares to the prediction. The more results the system holds, the better the algorithm will understand a player’s ability, and therefore, its “confidence” in the player’s Number will increase. Match results are analyzed at set level, meaning the algorithm takes into account each individual set as its own result.
Yes, Canadian players’ WTNs will be updated on a weekly basis every Wednesday.
Yes, match results are analyzed at set level, meaning the algorithm takes into account each individual set as its own result. The WTN algorithm compares its score prediction with the actual score to determine what a player’s specific rating should be.
The match must have one completed set.
A good rule of thumb is 6 matches, however a higher number of matches will lead to a more accurate WTN rating.
WTNs will be calculated using live match data to ensure every player has an accurate number when the system goes live. As a player’s WTN will be generated by an accurate, objective and sophisticated mathematical calculation it will not be possible to appeal the result of the calculation.
If any results are missing or incorrect, it is recommended the player first contacts the tournament organizer for that specific event. If the tournament organizer was already contacted and the results are still not appearing/corrected, the player can email tournaments@tenniscanada.com.
Yes, international results contribute towards a player’s WTN as long as the country they have competed in also participates in the ITF WTN program. The ITF WTN is a global system and as such any player who has competed internationally in a nation that also supports the ITF WTN program will have one Number which reflects all matches played at home and abroad. As of April 2024, 169 nations have joined the ITF WTN program.
WTN AND COMPETITIONS
Yes, the WTN will be used as the second entry criteria for ITF Junior tournaments. Junior ITF rankings will currently remain as the first entry criteria.
Yes, depending on the level of tournament it can have a higher impact on a player’s WTN. For example, in Canada matches played at Provincial Championships will carry more weight than matches played at Provincial 2-star tournaments.
Starting in 2024, adult competition will have recommended WTN ranges listed for competition categories. Select provinces are running WTN based competition, please check with your PTTA for more information.
Looking for more information? Visit the global WTN site or email us at WTNmatches@tenniscanada.com
Cover photo credit: Bronwyn Davies