Tennis Walkover: What It Is and How It Affects You

A walkover in tennis is when a player or team wins a match because the opponent can’t start or finish the game. No balls are hit, no sets are played – the win is awarded automatically. It sounds simple, but the reasons behind a walkover can be anything from a sudden injury to travel issues or even a missed court assignment.

Why Walkovers Happen

Most walkovers happen right before a match begins. A common scenario is a player pulling a hamstring during warm‑up. If the doctor says they can’t play, the opponent gets the win by walkover. Sometimes it’s not injury – a flight delay or a visa problem can stop a player from reaching the venue on time. Even rain can cause a walkover if the tournament can’t reschedule the match quickly enough.

Another reason is a rule violation. If a player tests positive for a banned substance or breaks a code of conduct before the match, officials may disqualify them, resulting in a walkover for the opponent. While rare, these cases do occur at higher‑level events where strict anti‑doping rules apply.

What It Means for Rankings and Prize Money

When you win by walkover, the ranking points you would have earned from a normal win still count. The ATP and WTA both treat a walkover win the same as a regular victory for points. That means you keep your spot in the rankings ladder, which can be crucial during a tight season.

Prize money works similarly. The winner’s share is usually paid out, but the loser doesn’t get the first‑round prize. However, if the walkover happens before the tournament starts – often called a “pre‑draw” walkover – the absent player may still receive a small participation fee, depending on the event’s rules.

For the player who couldn’t compete, the financial hit can be significant. Missing out on prize money and ranking points can affect future tournament entries, especially for those trying to climb the rankings.

From a fan’s perspective, a walkover can be disappointing. You miss the chance to see a match you were looking forward to. Organizers try to fill the gap with practice sessions or junior matches, but it’s never the same.

If you’re a player, the best way to avoid a walkover is to have a solid backup plan. Keep travel arrangements flexible, stay on top of medical checks, and communicate any issues with tournament officials as early as possible. A quick call can sometimes lead to a reschedule instead of an automatic loss.

For spectators, keep an eye on official tournament updates. Social media, the event’s website, and live score apps will let you know if a walkover has been declared. Switching to a different match or checking out on‑court practice can still give you a good tennis fix.

Bottom line: a tennis walkover is a win without play, caused by injury, logistics, or rule breaches. It still counts for points and prize money, but it can leave both players and fans feeling a bit short‑changed. Knowing why it happens and how it impacts you helps you stay prepared whether you’re on the court or watching from the stands.