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Playing Levels Characteristics
The NTRP Classification System is unique in that it defines, in writing, the Playing Levels characteristics of each of its playing levels.
The National Tennis Rating Program (NTRP) is used universally to unify the classification of players throughout the United States.
Tennis players should rate themselves based on their overall tennis ability. If players are stronger at singles or doubles, they should base their rating on the stronger game.
The rating categories are generalizations about skill levels which means that the ultimate test is in match play results.
To place yourself:
- Begin with 1.5. Read all categories carefully and then decide which one best describes your present playing level ability . Be certain that you qualify on all points of all preceding levels as well as those in the level you choose.
- When rating yourself assume you are playing against a player of the same gender and the same ability.
1.5 You have limited experience and are working primarily on getting the ball in play.
2.0
You lack court experience and your strokes need developing. You are familiar with the basic positions for singles and doubles play.
2.5 You are learning to judge where the ball is going, although your court coverage is limited. You can sustain a short rally of slow pace with other players of the same ability.
3.0 You are fairly consistent when hitting medium-paced shots, but are not comfortable with all strokes and lack execution when trying for directional control, depth, or power. Your most common doubles formation is one-up, one-back.
3.5 You have achieved improved stroke dependability with directional control on moderate shots, but need to develop depth and variety. You exhibit more aggressive net play, have improved court coverage and are 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 to 7.0
You have had intensive training for national tournament competition at the junior and collegiate levels and have obtained a sectional and/or national ranking.
7.0
You are a world-class player . This is the top of all Playing Levels.
Check out the competitive tennis page to learn more about rating yourself and follow the guidelines I share with you for reaching to be your very best in tennis.
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