Named after tennis great Rod Laver, this event borrows its energy from golf’s Ryder Cup, turning individual stars into teammates for one loud, colorful weekend.
The Basic Concept
The Laver Cup pits Team Europe against Team World across three days of singles and doubles matches. Unlike a normal ATP event, players sit courtside with their captain and teammates, coaching and cheering between points.
How the Scoring Works
- Matches on day one are worth one point each
- Day two matches are worth two points each
- Day three matches are worth three points each
- The first team to reach the required point total wins the Cup
An Exhibition With Real Stakes
While it does not carry ATP ranking points, the Laver Cup has quickly built a reputation for genuine competitiveness and rare on-court camaraderie between players who are normally rivals. It has become a showcase moment for the sport’s young tennis stars to share a bench with established champions.
How It Differs From the Davis Cup
Unlike the century-old Davis Cup, which is organized by nation, the Laver Cup groups players by continent and leans into showmanship, music, and a more relaxed, team-first atmosphere.
Where It Fits in the Season
Typically held in the autumn, the Laver Cup slots neatly into the back end of the season on our full tennis calendar, offering a lighter, team-based contrast to the intensity of the Grand Slams.
A Different Kind of Pressure
Because the event carries no ranking points, players often describe a different, looser kind of pressure than a normal tour stop, one built more around team pride and not wanting to let teammates down than around individual stakes.
Final Word
The Laver Cup will never replace the majors in prestige, but for pure entertainment and a rare glimpse of tennis as a team sport, it has carved out a place all its own.