How the USTA Calculates NTRP Year-End Ratings

The USTA’s NTRP year-end rating algorithm calculates your skill level (rounded to the nearest 0.5, e.g., 3.51–4.00 becomes 4.0) using match results from the past 12 months (mid-November to mid-November). You need at least three matches for a Computer Rating (C). It factors in scores, opponent and partner ratings, and match competitiveness, with playoff and championship matches weighted more heavily. Recent matches likely carry more weight, and ratings are normalized across sections for consistency.

Leagues and Tournaments That Count

• USTA League Adult Divisions: 18 & Over, 40 & Over, 55 & Over, 65 & Over
• Mixed 18 & Over, Mixed 40 & Over
• USTA-sanctioned NTRP tournaments
• District, Sectional, and National Championship matches (heavier weight)

Leagues That Don’t Count

• Combo Doubles
• Flex Leagues
• 70 & Over leagues

Mixed Doubles results only generate a Mixed (M) rating if you play at least three matches and lack a Computer Rating from men’s/women’s leagues.

Strategies to Avoid Getting Bumped Up or Down

• Play Consistently at Your Level: Aim for competitive matches (e.g., 6-4, 6-3) against players at your current NTRP level. Dominant wins (e.g., 6-1, 6-0) against weaker opponents or blowout losses to stronger ones can push your rating up or down.
• Choose Opponents Wisely: Play against players with similar or slightly higher dynamic ratings (not visible but estimated by their level and performance). Beating much higher-rated players or losing to much lower-rated ones can shift your rating significantly.
• Manage Late-Season Matches: Since recent matches may weigh more, avoid overly dominant performances or heavy losses late in the season (October-November) to stabilize your rating.
• Doubles Partner Selection: Pair with partners of similar skill to avoid skewed results. A much stronger partner might mask your contribution, potentially lowering your rating, while a weaker one could hurt your performance against strong teams.
• Limit Playoff Exposure: Championship matches have more weight, so strong wins or losses here can push you up or down. If you’re on the edge of a level, consider skipping playoffs if your team qualifies, though this risks team dynamics.
• Play Minimum Matches: If you’re happy with your rating, play just the minimum three matches in qualifying leagues to get a rating without adding too many data points that could shift it.
• Avoid Mixed Doubles Exclusivity: Mixed results only count for a Mixed (M) rating if you don’t play men’s/women’s leagues. Stick to Adult Divisions to ensure your Computer Rating reflects your broader performance.

Check your rating on TennisLink around December 1 and appeal if it feels off, though approvals depend on specific criteria. Note: Intentionally losing matches to avoid a bump-up (“sandbagging”) risks dynamic disqualification, especially for self-rated players, so play competitively but strategically.