The matrix sets out important ranking milestones for players of each age and gender.
The LTA has based the matrix on a number of factors. Firstly, for senior players, it has looked at the ranking history of a number of ATP and WTA Top 100 players, to give a clear guide in order to measure progress against players who have reached the Top 100.
Secondly, the LTA has analysed junior players' performances as indicated by their national and European (Tennis Europe & International Tennis Federation) rankings. This analysis is based upon the historical pathways of successful players.
The matrix awards players different funding amounts according to their age and playing level.
Players aged between 8U and 12U can gain a matrix level through attendance at Talent ID days. Talent ID days are held during the year and the levels achieved by the players are recorded. Older players gain a place on the matrix through either domestic or international competition results. These rankings are recorded twice a year at the end of the domestic winter and summer season, and together these rankings will decide the matrix levels for the forthcoming year.
These levels then relate to a funding amount from the LTA which is given to support the player’s tennis development over the following year. This funding generally goes directly to the training centre and it must be used to offset the cost of the player’s programme.
The AEGON FutureStars programme for 2011/2012 began on 1st October 2011 and will run until 30th September 2012. All players have been informed and have received their first instalment of funding as well as their kit from AEGON. Players should expect to receive their second instalment of funding by the end of April 2012.
The updated Manual Matrix Adjustment (MMA) Selection Policy is available to download on the right-hand side of this page. The dates of the application deadlines and MMA Panel meetings are below:
For players competing in 14U age groups and older during the Winter Season 2011/2012
Application Deadline – 27th April 2012
MMA Panel Meeting - 10th May 2012
For players competing in 13U age groups and below during the Winter Season 2011/2012
Application Deadline – 18th May 2012
MMA Panel Meeting – 25th May 2012
The seasonal British Tennis ranking lists show all ranking points for the current season only. Seasonal Rankings from both the winter and summer seasons are used solely to determine matrix funding for the 2011/2012 year.
View the seasonal British Tennis rankings FAQs