What is protected ranking in tennis?

Protected ranking in tennis allows players who have been out of competition due to injury or other exceptional circumstances to enter tournaments using a ranking that reflects their position before their absence. This ranking is typically based on the player's best results over a specified period, usually the last 12 months prior to their injury. It helps ensure that players can regain their competitive standing without being penalized by long periods of inactivity. Players can use their protected ranking for entering a limited number of events, aiding their return to the sport.