Daniil Medvedev proposes a radical change to the ATP points system.

The former world number one, Daniil Medvedev, has made waves in the tennis world by suggesting a drastic overhaul of the ATP points system, a proposal that promises to shake up the structure of the circuit and alleviate pressure on players. Medvedev believes that the change is not only necessary but urgent, as it could significantly reduce the number of mandatory tournaments for athletes.

Currently, the ATP ranking system is based on a cumulative model over 52 weeks, taking into account the best 18 results of players. For those competing in the ATP Finals, this number rises to 19. Essentially, this means that players are required to participate in at least 18 tournaments throughout the year, including the four Grand Slams and eight ATP Masters 1000 events, which are deemed mandatory. The remaining six tournaments can be a mix of events such as the Monte Carlo Masters, ATP 500, United Cup, ATP 250, Challenger, and/or ITF competitions.

The current system uses a points scale that varies according to the tournament category: winners of a Grand Slam receive 2,000 points, while an ATP Masters title is worth 1,000 points, an ATP 500 awards 500 points, and an ATP 250 results in 250 points. Since 2009, there have been few significant changes to this system, but Medvedev is determined to see that change. “I think the players would agree, from what I’m hearing, to make… even more tournaments mandatory,” said the former world number one. “I would say to have four Grand Slams, I don’t know, 11 Masters, and that’s it. The other tournaments [ATP 500 and ATP 250], maybe make them worth no points or something like that.”

The pressure to accumulate points intensifies as the season progresses, with players battling for a position that secures them a spot in the ATP Finals or a better ranking that ensures a favorable draw the following year. Medvedev highlighted the situation of Holger Rune, who suffered an Achilles tendon injury during an ATP 250 event in Stockholm last October. “What happens is that last year, Holger got injured in Stockholm, and everyone was saying, ‘Yes, but you don’t need to play that.’ If he wants to be in Turin [for the ATP Finals], he has to play, even if it’s not a mandatory tournament,” explained the 2021 US Open champion.

Medvedev himself faced the challenge of participating in seven consecutive tournaments last year. “Did I need to? No. I played poorly at the beginning of the year, maybe I could have gotten 100 points here, 200 points there, to be better ranked for next year,” he reflected. “If there were no points, at least it would be an easier decision. But that’s not going to happen.”

With Medvedev’s proposal, the future of the ATP circuit may be on the brink of a revolution. His vision not only challenges the status quo, but also highlights the need for a system that protects the health and well-being of players while promoting fair competition. The tennis community is paying attention, and the next steps of the ATP could define a new path for the sport.