The National Tennis Rating Program (NTRP) classifies players
in a certain skill level. The NTRP provides a simple, self-placement method to group individuals of similar ability for league
play, tournaments, group lessons, social matches and club or community programs. Ratings range from 1.0 (beginner) to 7.0
(world class professional).
Review the General Characteristics of NTRP Playing Levels
here and decide on your self-rating.
Players wishing to participate in a USA League Tennis program
or compete in Adult NTRP tournaments can self-rate or play selected tournaments that have verifiers present. These tournaments
are listed in the Adult Tournament Schedule with a (V). See the link below.
General Characteristics of NTRP Playing Levels
- Abbreviated
2.0: This player needs on-court experience. This player
has obvious stroke weaknesses, but is familiar with basic positions for singles and doubles play.
2.5: This player is learning to judge where the ball is
going although court coverage is weak. This player 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: This player has dependable strokes, including directional
control and depth on both forehand and backhand sides on moderate shots, plus the ability to use lobs, overheads, approach
shots and volleys with some success. This player occasionally forces errors when serving. Rallies may be lost due to impatience.
Teamwork in doubles is evident.
4.5: This player has begun to master the use of power and
spins and is beginning to handle pace, has sound footwork, can control depth of shots, and is beginning to vary game plan
according to opponents. This player can hit first serves with power and accuracy and place the second serve. This player tends
to overhit on difficult shots. Aggressive net play is common in doubles.
5.0: This player has good shot anticipation and frequently
has an outstanding shot or attribute around which a game may be structured. This player can regularly hit winners or force
errors off of short balls and can put away volleys, can successfully execute lobs, drop shots, half volleys, overhead smashes,
and has good depth and spin on most second serves.
5.5: This player has developed power and/or consistency
as a major weapon. This player can vary strategies and styles of play in a competitive situation and hits dependable shots
in a stressful situation.
The following link provides
the official USTA definitions for determining your NTRP level.