What is a 4.0 or 4.5 in tennis ranking?

Answer 1

From the National Tennis Rating Program (NTRP) Guidelines, here are the basic guidelines for each level:

2.5 = This player is learning to judge where the ball is going although court coverage is weak. Can sustain a short rally of slow pace with other players of the same ability.

3.0 = This player is fairly consistent when hitting medium paced shots, but is not comfortable with all strokes and lacks execution when trying for directional control, depth, or power. Most common doubles formation is one-up, one-back.

3.5 = This player has achieved improved stroke dependability with directional control on moderate shots, but still lacks depth and variety. This player exhibits more aggressive net play, has improved court coverage, and is developing teamwork in doubles.

4.0 = You have dependable strokes, including directional control and depth on both forehand and backhand sides on moderate-paced shots. You can use lobs, overheads, approach shots and volleys with some success and occasionally force errors when serving.

Rallies may be lost due to impatience. Teamwork in doubles is evident.

4.5 = You have developed your use of power and spin and can handle pace. You have sound footwork, can control depth of shots, and attempt to vary game plan according to your opponents. You can hit first serves with power and accuracy and place the second serve. You tend to overhit on difficult shots. Aggressive net play is common in doubles.

5.0 = You have good shot anticipation and frequently have an outstanding shot or attribute around which a game may be structured. You can regularly hit winners or force errors off of short balls and can put away volleys. You can successfully execute lobs, drop shots, half volleys, overhead smashes, and have good depth and spin on most second serves.

5.5 = You have mastered power and/or consistency as a major weapon. You can vary strategies and styles of play in a competitive situation and hit dependable shots in a stress situation.

6.0 = You have had intensive training for national tournament competition at the junior and collegiate levels and have obtained a sectional and/or national ranking.

6.5 = You are currently playing USTA circuit events in hopes of a professional tennis career.

7.0 = You are a world-class player.

Answer 2

I am a 4.0 working to become a 4.5 so I can only answer from the perspective of what I am doing. Here goes:

1. If you have flaws in your game, and we all do, work with a pro to fix them. It won't happen overnight so be patient.

2. Get into top physical shape. You'll not only need to get to more balls, but you'll need to be able to really do something with balls that are out of reach.

3. Work on your serve. It needs to be deep, well placed, have spin.

4. Increase your pace. This does not mean you need to hit the ball harder, just better, which is why #1 is so important.

5. Learn to welcome lobs instead of fear them.

6. Work on anticipating where your opponent is going to hit the ball based on body cues. This one is one of the hardest for me!