Walkover is a tennis term that is used when a player withdraws from the match before it begins and their opponent is declared the winner. It can also be called an “automatic victory” or “byes”. This can happen due to injury, illness, scheduling conflicts, or other reasons. In some cases, walkovers can even result in prize money!
The definition of a “walkover” in tennis
A walkover, also known as a forfeit, is a situation in tennis where a player is allowed to win a match without having to take to the court. This can occur if their opponent is unable or unwilling to play, or if they have already been defaulted for breaking a rule.
In some cases, a walkover may also be awarded if an opponent withdraws from a match due to injury or illness. While a walkover can be a disappoinment for spectators, it is often seen as a fair result by the players involved. After all, it is difficult to compete when your opponent has already been given the victory.
How and why a player can be awarded a walkover
In tennis, a “walkover” occurs when a player is awarded the win without having to play the match. There are several reasons why this might happen, such as if an opponent is unable to continue due to an injury or if they fail to show up for the match.
A walkover can also be awarded if an opponent is disqualified for violating the rules, such as by using offensive language or receiving coaching during the match. Whatever the reason, a walkover is always a disappointing way to win, as it deprives players of the opportunity to compete. However, in some cases, it is the only fair result.
Famous examples of players who have won walkovers
In tennis, a walkover is when a player is awarded the match because their opponent has failed to show up or has had to retire due to injury. While it’s not an ideal way to win, it does happen from time to time at all levels of the sport.
Some of the most famous examples include when Novak Djokovic won the Wimbledon title in 2018 after his opponent, Rafael Nadal, withdrew due to injury.
In 2012, Serena Williams was awarded a walkover victory in the French Open final when her opponent, Maria Sharapova, was forced to retire with a shoulder injury.
And at the 2017 Australian Open, Roger Federer won his record-breaking 18th Grand Slam title after his opponent, Stan Wawrinka, withdrew due to injury. While it’s not the triumph that players dream of, winning a walkover is still a noteworthy achievement.
What it means for the rest of the tournament when one player is awarded a walkover
When a player is awarded a walkover, it means they automatically advance to the next round without having to play their match.
There are a few reasons why this might happen, such as if their opponent has withdrawn from the tournament or if they have been disqualified. Regardless of the reason, being awarded a walkover can have a big impact on the rest of the tournament.
- First, it gives the player an extra day of rest and recuperation, which can be crucial at the end of a long tournament.
- Second, it can give them a psychological edge over their opponents, who may feel like they have to work twice as hard to catch up.
- Finally, it can also help them build momentum heading into the later rounds. Ultimately, being awarded a walkover can be a big advantage for any player in the tournament.
