What is so special about getting first ATP or WTA points and what does it take to get them? After new rules of ranking being published, it will be even harder and more special! Besides the fact that with professional ranking a player can have open access to more professional tournaments and also an easier draw, it also means a recognition, a proof of being a successful player. This ranking is also a key to a door of hundreds of universities in the USA, where ATP and WTA ranked players are usually welcomed with full athletic scholarships. In the end, if you manage to get that famous ATP or WTA point, your name shows up on the list along with the biggest names in the tennis world, like Djokovic, Nadal, Federer, Halep, Williams, etc. Your name could be found below them, after scrolling down a bit. Pretty awesome feeling, no? Every mature player knows what it takes to break the ice, to win the first ATP or WTA point. Professional approach to this sport, sacrificing other important things in life (regular school, social life, free time, etc), diligent work and continuous investment in a progression and prevention from injuries enhance the chance of getting the points.
I was never living professional tennis life. High school, then university, then family along with family tennis business were priorities while I was competing. Despite that, I managed to win against many ATP ranked players. It made me think, “Ooooh, wouldn’t it be wonderful if I get one?”. To accomplish that goal, I had a chance by playing futures tournaments. I just needed 3 consecutive wins in qualification rounds and 1 in the main draw!
The day has come, out of nowhere, I am so close to it! I am playing that important match that can put me on the list with Roger, Novak… I need just a few more points! The place for spectators behind the court becomes crowded all of a sudden. Stefan, my son, is crying because of the heat in the baby stroller behind the fence. For some reason, it doesn’t distract me, rather motivates and I am telling myself “Don’t stop now, come on, who knows when you will have another chance!” One point slips away and the goal seems to be unreachable again. I gave everything I could, played brave, no regrets. Sometimes it is not enough. My opponent Nikola, deserved to win. I’ve already seen myself serving for the match, serving for the first ATP point when I had a few break points on 5:5 in the third set. However, like my brother wisely says sometimes “You can’t have it all!”. By then, I already had a son, I was a tennis club owner, working successfully with nationally ranked juniors. I was at the point of having successful college days just behind me and rising coaching career upfront. Even though this is the loss that hurt unbearably, life goes on!
“You can’t buy ATP points to buy your ranking. It’s not possible; otherwise Gulbis would be No. 1 in the world.” – Tommy Haas
Vlad Paunic Tennis Blog 