Daniil Medvedev Advocates for Overhaul of ATP Ranking System

Daniil Medvedev, currently ranked 11th in the ATP rankings, has called for significant reforms to the ATP calendar, suggesting that only Grand Slam and Masters 1000 tournaments should offer ranking points. This proposal aims to alleviate the pressure on players who are required to compete in numerous events throughout the year, which Medvedev argues contributes to physical strain and injuries. He highlighted the case of Holger Rune, who suffered a ruptured Achilles at an ATP 250 event, as an example of the risks players face while chasing ranking points.

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Medvedev's suggestion includes making the four Grand Slams and 11 Masters tournaments mandatory while stripping ranking points from lower-tier ATP 500 and 250 events. He believes this change would simplify the tour and reduce the number of tournaments players feel compelled to enter. "If there would be no points there, at least it is an easier decision," he stated, emphasizing the burden of competing in non-mandatory events to secure a spot in the ATP Finals.

ATP Rankings: Former world No 1 calls for dramatic change to points systemReutersMedvedev’s Solution to Streamlining Schedule – Tennis NowDaniil Medvedev calls for dramatic change to tennis which all players will agree withTennis, ATP – Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026: Medvedev beats WawrinkaDaniil Medvedev: “People don’t see the toll” tennis puts on top athletes

The ATP currently employs a rolling 52-week ranking system that includes players' best 18 results, with the top players required to participate in four Grand Slams and eight Masters 1000 tournaments. The remaining events can include ATP 500, ATP 250, and other competitions. This structure has faced criticism for its demanding nature, leading to concerns about player welfare and the sustainability of the tour.

ATP Rankings: Former world No 1 calls for dramatic change to points systemDaniil Medvedev calls for dramatic change to tennis which all players will agree withReutersMedvedev’s Solution to Streamlining Schedule – Tennis NowTennis, ATP – Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026: Medvedev beats WawrinkaDaniil Medvedev: “People don’t see the toll” tennis puts on top athletes

Medvedev's views resonate with other players, including Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek, who have also expressed concerns about the rigorous schedule. The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), led by Novak Djokovic and Vasek Pospisil, has been vocal about the need for reform, even launching a lawsuit against tennis governing bodies for maintaining an unsustainable schedule. Critics argue that the current system prioritizes ranking points over player health, leading to burnout and injuries.

Tennis, ATP – Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2026: Medvedev beats WawrinkaDaniil Medvedev calls for dramatic change to tennis which all players will agree withATP Rankings: Former world No 1 calls for dramatic change to points systemMedvedev’s Solution to Streamlining Schedule – Tennis NowReutersDaniil Medvedev: “People don’t see the toll” tennis puts on top athletes

ATP chief Andrea Gaudenzi defended the current calendar, stating that scheduling remains a choice for players. Medvedev, however, believes that the existing structure is unlikely to change during his career due to financial constraints and the reluctance of lower-tier tournaments to relinquish their ranking points.

Reuters

As Medvedev continues to compete, his proposals may spark further discussions among players and ATP officials regarding potential reforms. With a growing chorus of players advocating for change, the future of the ATP ranking system remains a critical topic in the tennis community.

Daniil Medvedev calls for dramatic change to tennis which all players will agree with

• “I would say make four Grand Slams, I don’t know, 11 Masters, and that’s it.” — Daniil Medvedev, ATP Player

ATP Rankings: Former world No 1 calls for dramatic change to points system

• “If there would be no points there, at least it is an easier decision.” — Daniil Medvedev, ATP Player

Daniil Medvedev calls for dramatic change to tennis which all players will agree with

• “What happens is last year, Holger got injured in Stockholm, everybody was like, ‘Yeah, but you don’t have to play it’. If he wants to be in Turin [for the ATP Finals], he has to, even if it’s not a mandatory tournament,” — Daniil Medvedev, ATP Player

ATP Rankings: Former world No 1 calls for dramatic change to points system

• “I think right now with how the ATP Tour, it’s never going to change, at least while I’m playing, many other guys.” — Daniil Medvedev, ATP Player

Medvedev’s Solution to Streamlining Schedule – Tennis Now