What does walkover mean in tennis?

To find out what a walkover in tennis means, just read this article.

Tennis is a sport full of nuances and peculiar terminology that may seem strange to the uninitiated.

One such word that may confuse viewers is “walkover” (W.O).

Here we explain the meaning of this term in the context of tennis, explaining what it represents and how it can affect a tournament.

Basic concept of walkover in tennis

A walkover in tennis occurs when a player or team is declared the winner of a game or match without actually having to play.

This happens when the opponent is not available to compete due to injuries, withdrawal, disqualification or any other reason that prevents the game from taking place.

Injuries and Walkovers in Tennis

One of the most common reasons for a walkover in tennis is an injury.

Injuries can occur at any time during a tennis season, and in some cases, a player may register for a tournament and not be in physical condition to compete.

When this happens, they may be forced to withdraw from the tournament and concede a walkover to their opponent, resulting in a walkover (WO).

Withdrawals and Walkovers in Tennis

In addition to injuries, withdrawals are also a frequent cause of walkovers.

A player may decide to withdraw from a tournament for personal, physical or strategic reasons. When this happens, your opponent is declared the winner by walkover and advances in the competition.

Disqualifications and Walkover

In rarer cases of Walkover, a player may be disqualified from a tournament for violating tournament rules or regulations.

Such disqualification will result in a walkover for the disqualified player’s opponent.

Impact of Walkovers in a Tournament

Walkovers have a significant impact on a tennis tournament, both for the players involved and the public.

For players, receiving a walkover victory can be a relief if they are dealing with injuries or extreme fatigue. However, it can also be frustrating as many athletes prefer to win on the court.

Walkovers Strategy

Players can be strategic in using a walkover to their advantage.

For example, a player who is worn out or facing a minor injury may withdraw from a tournament before an important match to save energy or ensure his fitness for future events.

This could be a calculated tactic to improve your chances in competitions.

Famous Tennis Walkover Stories

An iconic example occurred in the quarterfinals of the US Open in 1974, when Jimmy Connors would face his friend and compatriot Ken Rosewall.

Rosewall, however, suffered a wrist injury and was forced to withdraw, awarding Connors a walkover victory. Although Connors advanced in the competition, he was widely criticized for his behavior.

Two other famous walkovers in tennis history involve tennis legends.

1926 Australian Open

In 1926, during the Australian Open final, legendary French tennis player René Lacoste won the title without even having to enter the court, as his opponent, Australian James Anderson, was unable to compete due to a back injury.

This landmark event consolidated Lacoste’s reputation and highlighted the importance of taking care of physical preparation in tennis.

2001: Roger Federer vs Marc Rosset at the Paris Masters

Another notable walkover occurred in 2001, when Switzerland’s Roger Federer advanced to the final of the Paris Masters after his compatriot and friend, Marc Rosset, withdrew from the semi-final due to injury.

This incident demonstrated the sporting ethics and camaraderie between the players, as Rosset preferred to abandon the match rather than compete at a physical disadvantage against Federer.

Both cases emphasize how unforeseen events can significantly influence results in high-level tennis.