How and When to Protest a USTA Rating

Rich Neher
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Get the Data

You need to be able to back up your claim with data. Research the player and gather information to support your claim. 

Losing a match isn't strong evidence. Go into Tennislink and research that player's history in leagues and tournaments. Go on Google and see if you find other corroborating data that this player may have omitted in the self-rate.

A San Fernando Valley 7.0 Mixed Doubles team in the 40+ division filed a grievance against a player on a competing team who they thought self-rated too low. He was listed as 3.0 and, therefore, was theoretically able to play with a 4.0 female. 

It turns out he had played on higher level teams the year before and forgot to mention that he had played in high school. His entire game looked far too accomplished for a new player who self-rated 3.0. When combined with the 4.0 woman, he looked even better.

The grievance went to the Southern California Tennis Association's Grievance Committee and was upheld. The match in question was reversed and the player was promoted to a higher level. 

Every USTA section and district office will treat a grievance with the necessary seriousness and professionalism. If your allegations check out and your complaint is justified, they will take action. 

Keep in mind, that the USTA is also good at discovering sore losers who might be better off playing at a lower level.

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