Federer Calls for shift in ATP Rankings Following Sinner‘s Rise, Alcaraz Impacted
ROME, ITALY – September 23, 2025 – Tennis legend Roger federer has voiced the need for adjustments to the ATP rankings system considering Jannik sinner’s recent ascent and its implications for Carlos Alcaraz, signaling a potential reshaping of the competitive landscape. Federer’s comments come as Sinner’s performance challenges the established order and raises questions about how effectively the current system reflects player form and momentum.
The debate centers on the ATP’s points-based ranking system, which assigns values to tournament results over a 52-week period. Critics argue this system can undervalue current form, notably for players like Sinner who have experienced rapid advancement. Federer, speaking after Sinner’s strong showing in recent tournaments, stated, “We have to change that.” The shift in rankings impacts Alcaraz, currently holding the number one position, as Sinner’s gains close the gap and introduce a new dynamic to the top of men’s tennis.
The core issue revolves around the weighting of points earned at different tournaments and the length of the ranking cycle. A longer cycle can mean past results continue to influence rankings even as a player’s current performance dramatically changes. Federer’s call for change suggests a desire for a system that more accurately reflects a player’s present capabilities and recent achievements.The ATP is expected to review the ranking system at its next board meeting, with potential modifications to be discussed and implemented in the coming months. This review will determine how future rankings are calculated and whether the system will be adapted to better acknowledge evolving player performance.