Rafael Nadal’s Use of Protected Ranking (PR) at the 2024 Australian Open:
Rafael Nadal opts for a PR entry instead of a wildcard, securing a place in the main draw. This move impacts wildcard allocations, leaving eight slots available.
Other Tennis Stars Embracing the PR Opportunity:
Several other notable players will join Nadal in using the PR provision at the Australian Open 2024.
Protected Ranking: A Vital Tool for Injured Players:
PR in tennis aids athletes recovering from long-term injuries. Enables immediate return to pre-injury competition level, irrespective of current ranking.
Inclusive Provision for Both Genders:
PR extends to female players on maternity breaks, ensuring a fair opportunity for return.
ATP and WTA Guidelines for PR Usage:
ATP allows PR for nine months or nine tournaments upon return, with an extension to 12 months for lay-offs exceeding a year.
WTA rules differ slightly: 6-12 months of absence allows for eight tournaments in one season, while over a year extends to 12.
PR Limitations: Unseeded Entries Only:
Despite its benefits, PR provides only unseeded entry opportunities for players.
Five players are set to utilize their Protected Ranking in tennis for the 2024 Australian Open.
Rafael Nadal
– Rafael Nadal Returns to tennis at Brisbane International, preparing for the 2024 Australian Open.
– Out of action since early last year, falling outside the top 600.
– Utilizing Protected Ranking (PR) at No.11 for direct entry into the Grand Slam.
Naomi Osaka
– Multiple Grand Slam winners making a comeback after a break since September 2022.
– Opts for PR entry at No.46 after not playing for a year and a half.
– Targets a third Australian Open title.
Marin Cilic
– 2014 US Open champion with limited ATP matches in 2023 due to a knee injury.
– Falls outside the top 600, entering the 2024 Australian Open with PR at No.21.
– Previously reached the final in Melbourne in 2018.
Milos Raonic
– Former World No.3 played in 2023 Wimbledon and US Open with PR (No.33).
– Missed 2022 season; ranks at World No. 318.
– Aiming for success in Melbourne after notable wins on PR, including over Frances Tiafoe.
Denis Shapovalov
– Had a promising 2023 season cut short by injury.
– Ranks at World No. 109 but chooses PR entry at No.27 over qualifiers for the 2024 Australian Open.
– Eyes improvement on his quarterfinal finish in the 2022 AO.