Top player yet only a beginner (4)

I believe the answer is:

seed

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'top player' is the definition.
(eg a seeded tennis player)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for seed that I've seen before include "A plant grows from it" , "Basis for new plant" , "Pip; origin, beginning" , "favourite player" , "Kernel" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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