What Is A Lucky Loser In Tennis?

Despite sounding like an insult, a lucky loser is an actual tournament rule — not just a roast from your group chat.

A lucky loser is a player who loses in the final round of qualifying, but still gets into the main draw because someone else drops out.

They didn’t technically qualify… but they get a second chance. Hence: lucky. (Still, “backup who blew it but got in anyway” just doesn’t sound as good.)

1. How It Works

Every tournament has a qualifying round before the main event — especially for players ranked outside the top 100.

If a player loses in the final round of qualifying but a main-draw player withdraws (injury, illness, etc.), the tournament fills the empty spot with one of the final-round losers — based on rankings or draw order.

2. Why It Matters

Some lucky losers go on to win a few rounds… and occasionally make a deep run.

So yeah, the name’s a little unfair. But the opportunity? Very real.

👂 Where You’ll Hear It

“He’s a lucky loser — snuck into the draw after a withdrawal.”
Translation: He lost in qualifying, but someone dropped out, and he’s back in the mix.

“Don’t sleep on the lucky loser. He’s playing with house money.”
Translation: He wasn’t supposed to be here — which makes him dangerous. Nothing to lose, lots to gain.

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