How ATP and WTA Rankings Are Calculated

## The rolling 52-week window ATP and WTA rankings are calculated on a rolling 52-week basis. Points expire exactly 52 weeks after they were earned — creating the phenomenon of defending points. ## How points are distributed - **Grand Slam** — winner earns 2,000 points (ATP) - **Masters 1000 / WTA 1000** — winner earns 1,000 points - **ATP 500 / WTA 500** — winner earns 500 points - **ATP 250 / WTA 250** — winner earns 250 points ## Mandatory events Top-ranked players must enter a minimum set of mandatory events each year or receive the full points deducted. This prevents players from cherry-picking only their best surfaces. ## Why seedings matter in draws Seeds receive favourable draw positions — placed in separate quarters to avoid meeting each other until the latter stages. The top two seeds are guaranteed to be on opposite halves of the draw. ## Analytical insight A player's ranking is a lagging indicator reflecting the past 52 weeks. Recent form, surface-specific records, and head-to-head history are often more predictive than raw ranking position.