LONDON — Players competing in the Davis Cup World Group will get ATP ranking points for the first time starting next season.

The International Tennis Federation and the ATP said today they made the decision to award points to encourage more top players to participate in the team event.

"The addition of ranking points for all live singles and doubles rubbers is an added incentive for players to represent their nations in Davis Cup," the ITF said in a statement.

Although eight of the top 10-ranked players on the men's tour will be playing in the World Group quarterfinals starting Friday, top-ranked Roger Federer often skipped playing for Switzerland in the Davis Cup.

Besides earning points for a win, players can also get bonus points for winning a certain amount of matches throughout the year.

"The new ATP tour structure for 2009 is about providing fans, broadcasters and sponsors with the very best circuit possible," ATP executive chairman Etienne de Villiers said. "Like the tour, Davis Cup is a key component to the growth and future of tennis."