ITF and WTA agree ranking point increases at ITF events in 2021
- Point increases confirmed at W25, W60, W80 level -
The WTA in consultation with the ITF have agreed to increase the WTA ranking points awarded at ITF World Tennis Tour (WTT) women’s events for the remainder of the 2021 calendar. This adjustment addresses the current disruption to the WTT calendar due to Covid-19, and the subsequent reduction in playing opportunities
Starting with tournaments held the week commencing 5 April, WTA ranking points will increase at all women’s events in the categories W25 ($25,000 prize money) through W80 ($80,000) for the remainder of the year. Ranking points in the higher categories (W80+H and above) and at W15 events will remain the same.
A full breakdown of WTA ranking points at ITF World Tennis Tour women’s events from 5 April to the end of the year can be seen here: WTA ranking points at ITF World Tennis Tour events (Apr-Dec 2021)
WTA ranking points at ITF World Tennis Tour women’s events are set to revert to the original levels from January 2022 onwards.
Jackie Nesbitt, Director of ITF Circuits, said: “The ITF recognises that points earned at ITF World Tennis Tour women’s events provide a vital pathway for players to reach the highest levels of professional tennis. The WTA and their Players’ Council have listened to and are sympathetic to the issues facing lower ranked players at this time while Covid-19 continues to cause disruption to the WTT calendar. The solution offered enables players to earn additional ranking points and promotes progression in the rankings. We are grateful for the WTA’s consideration and collaboration in offering additional ranking points at this level.”
On 21 March 2021, the WTA announced adjustments to the WTA Ranking system for the continued schedule modifications affecting the Tour calendar following the 2020 pandemic-shortened season. These changes include allowing players to carry 50 per cent of their 2019 ranking points earned at ITF World Tennis Tour events from March 2019-December 2019 for an additional 52 weeks until 2022; and for 2020 points earned at ITF World Tennis Tour events to remain on for 104 weeks.