What's 

The DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) system is constantly evolving to give players the most accurate, fair, and universal ratings possible. Below, we’ve broken down some of the most common questions players ask about how DUPR works, how ratings are calculated, and what you can expect going forward.

1. DUPR Algorithm & Score Calculations

Are there “rules of thumb” for expected match scores between rating levels?

DUPR is releasing a new tool soon that will show the expected score for any match based on the players involved.

As a general guide, a 0.5 rating difference often translates to a score around 11-5. Keep in mind, though, the expected score formula is continually refined to improve accuracy, so these benchmarks may shift slightly over time.

Are some matches “not counted” in the algorithm?

Yes. Some matches are excluded from ratings, meaning they do not impact player DUPRs. Currently, if the average ratings of the two teams are more than 1.0 point apart, the match will not affect anyone’s rating.

This rule is in place for fairness—both teams should have a chance to outperform expectations and improve their rating. Keep in mind that policies like this may evolve in the future.

Why does playing against lower-rated players sometimes prevent rating increases?

It’s a common misconception that you can only improve your rating by playing stronger opponents. In reality, every match offers both teams the chance to move up by outperforming the expected score.

When facing lower-rated opponents, just winning isn’t always enough—you need to win by the expected margin. For example:

• An 11-9 win against a weaker team could lower your rating.

• An 11-3 win might raise it.

Over time, consistently meeting or exceeding expectations is what moves ratings upward.

Can DUPR differentiate between competitive wins vs. defaults, injuries, or extreme age differences?

• Defaults: DUPR counts all matches that are submitted. It’s the responsibility of the tournament director to correctly mark defaults so they are not reported.

• Age/Gender Differences: DUPR is universal and non-age/gender dependent. Results across demographics help place everyone on the same scale, based only on ability.

• Injuries: DUPR doesn’t treat injuries separately. They are part of every sport. As you recover and return to your true level, your rating will reflect that improvement.

Remember: DUPR reflects your overall average level of play, not just your peak, and injuries can be part of that journey.

How does playing in tournaments versus club-organized DUPR sessions affect rating changes?

Any match uploaded by a director carries the same weight, whether it comes from a club event or a tournament. The only matches that count for less are player-reported matches, since they don’t have the same level of verification as director-reported results.

2. DUPR Rating Accuracy & Adjustments

Can players reset their DUPR rating?

In almost all cases, DUPR does not reset ratings. The algorithm is designed to adjust quickly, especially for players with low reliability scores, so your rating reflects your level as you play more matches.

Your DUPR represents your full body of results, not just one standout win or off day. To better understand your rating, you can check your Player Stats in your DUPR profile, including your win/loss record and average opponent rating.

Why isn’t there a formal skill test or verification before assigning a rating?

Most players establish their DUPR by posting results from matches, club sessions, or tournaments. For new players:

• DUPR Coach offers live or video evaluations with a suggested starting point and provisional rating.

• Results continue refining your rating over time.

Skill-test-only systems tend to be subjective, easily manipulated, and updated too infrequently. DUPR’s results-based approach is more objective—similar to golf handicaps and other major sports tracking systems.

To ensure accuracy, DUPR has partnered with 100+ event and club management platforms, global federations, tours, and 8,000+ clubs worldwide, capturing results at every level of play.

3. DUPR + Tournaments & Competition

What should be done when tournament organizers don’t report results?

During tournament setup, the Tournament Director (TD) chooses whether results will upload to DUPR.

• If the TD opts out before registration, those scores cannot be retroactively sent from pickleball.com.

• If the TD later chooses to report, they can request DUPR’s assistance in uploading.

Will DUPR update ratings if a match is misreported?

Yes. If a match is entered incorrectly (wrong player or wrong score), the rating updates once the correction is made.

If you notice an error in your DUPR account:

• Contact your Tournament Director to fix it on pickleball.com.

• Once corrected, it will update automatically in DUPR.

If a player has no rating, how should they register for a tournament?

Players without a DUPR rating have two options:

1. DUPR Coach assessment – Provides a suggested starting point and provisional rating, which will sync with pickleball.com.

2. Self-assessed rating – Pickleball.com allows players to enter tournaments with a self-selected skill level.

4. DUPR’s Direction & Transparency

Why does DUPR keep changing the algorithm?

DUPR’s mission is to give players the most accurate rating possible. With more match data and new testing, the algorithm is refined to improve accuracy and enhance player experience.

These updates not only improve reliability but also increase transparency, helping players better understand and trust the system.

How is DUPR making ratings understandable for average players?

DUPR works to make ratings clear and accessible through:

• Their website, blogs, and social media with straightforward explanations.

• Partnerships with clubs, tours, and leagues to provide education.

• Presence at major amateur and professional events for direct engagement.

• Collaboration with athletes and ambassadors to reinforce transparency and clarity.

✅ Whether you’re a beginner just getting started or a seasoned competitor, DUPR is designed to evolve with you—capturing your progress, ensuring fair competition, and connecting the pickleball community worldwide.

👉 For a deeper dive into these updates and what they mean for your game, check out our full webinar review, where we break down the changes in detail and answer even more player questions live with DUPR.