DUPR Verified Pickleball Leagues 2026: Starting in 2026, major pickleball tours and leagues will run DUPR Verified Events to ensure fair play and accurate player ratings. This change aims to stop players from competing below their true skill level and to create balanced, competitive brackets for all athletes.
What DUPR Verified Events Mean
More than 300 organizations have already applied to host DUPR Verified tournaments. These events are designed to bring trust, fairness, and stronger competition to pickleball as the sport continues to grow rapidly. Players requested stricter standards, and DUPR responded with a premium system to protect the player experience.
Clear Rules for Players
Every participant must have an active DUPR+ subscription and verify their phone number. Events will be reviewed and approved by the DUPR Fairplay Committee. Any tour or league that does not meet the standards for eligibility, score reporting, or event setup will be removed from the program.
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Stronger Impact on Ratings
Matches played at DUPR Verified Events will carry more weight in a player’s DUPR rating because the results come from a trusted environment. Players can still improve their ratings in non-verified tournaments, but verified matches will count more toward their official scores.
Support from Major Leagues
Leaders across the sport are backing the change. Caroline Leulf, Director of The Dink Minor League Pickleball, said, “The Dink Minor League Pickleball was created to deliver competitive, team-based pickleball in the fairest way possible. Moving to DUPR Verified ensures that our players face true peers and that their results have lasting impact. It’s a game-changer for the integrity of our league.”
John Campbell, Founder and CEO of World of Pickleball, added, “Even better, DUPR verified events carry a higher weight on player ratings, meaning every match you play with us counts more toward your DUPR.”
Laurie Lambert, National Program Manager of the Top Tier Pickleball League, agreed, saying,
“Sandbagging has no place in elite pickleball. DUPR Verified events add a layer of protection, making Triple team one the most trusted amateur tours in the game.”
Seth Burleigh, Director of Operations for National Pickleball, said, “With DUPR Verified tournaments, we’re able to offer a premium experience: higher-level competition, more impactful ratings, and balanced brackets.”
Why It Matters
DUPR Verified Events will set a new standard for tournament integrity in 2026. By ensuring accurate player ratings and fair matchups, these events will improve the competitive experience and help pickleball maintain its rapid growth worldwide.
News in Brief: DUPR Verified Pickleball Leagues 2026
Starting in 2026, top pickleball tours and leagues will adopt DUPR Verified Events. Players will need a DUPR+ subscription and phone verification, while events must meet strict standards. Matches will impact ratings more, creating fairer divisions and stronger competition for the fast-growing sport.