The eighth edition of the Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF will take place in Jeddah from December 17 to 21, bringing together the world’s best players aged 20 and under. The ATP has announced a series of rules and innovations designed to enhance both the competition and the fan experience.

Scoring format

Matches will follow a first-to-four, best-of-five set format. Each set will be played to four games with a margin of two, and a tie-break to seven points will be contested at 3-3. Games will use the No-Ad scoring system, with the server choosing the service box.

Changeovers

Players will not change ends after the first game. They will switch sides and sit down for 90 seconds after three games, again if the score reaches 3-2, and at the end of each set. Tie-breaks will include a change of ends after every six points. The rest period at the end of sets has been reduced from 120 seconds to 90 seconds.

Rules initiatives

Several adjustments have been introduced to streamline play:

  • Warm-ups will last three minutes.

  • Balls will be changed after every seven games.

  • A serve shot clock will allow up to eight seconds between first and second serves.

  • Time between points will be reduced to 15 seconds if a rally lasts fewer than three shots, otherwise remaining at 25 seconds.

  • Fans will be allowed free movement during the first three games, with restrictions only in areas directly behind the baseline.

  • A lower umpire chair will continue to be used to improve visibility for spectators.

Innovation initiatives

In-arena data analytics will provide fans, players, and coaches with unprecedented insights. Statistics will include aces, serve percentages, break point performance, rally length analysis, and shot quality broken down by serve, return, forehand, backhand, and movement. Match Insights will highlight which player has been “In Attack” most often, who converts attacking points most effectively, and who excels at winning points while defending.

Access for coaches

Coaches will have access to real-time data through the ATP’s performance analytics platform, ATP Tennis IQ Powered by PIF. Post-match, video footage tagged with match data will also be available, offering deeper analysis and preparation tools for future matches.

The 2025 Next Gen ATP Finals promise to combine high-level competition with cutting-edge innovations, reinforcing the event’s role as a showcase for the future of tennis.