DUPR
DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) is a privately held technology company that operates a global pickleball player rating system and mobile application. Originally founded in 2021 as "Dreamland Universal Pickleball Rating" by Steve Kuhn, the company provides real-time player ratings ranging from 2.000 to 8.000, with separate ratings for singles and doubles play. DUPR has become the official rating system for major pickleball organizations including the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA Tour) and Major League Pickleball.
History
Founding and Early Development
DUPR was founded in 2021 by Steve Kuhn, who also founded Major League Pickleball and operates the Dreamland family entertainment center in Dripping Springs, Texas. The rating system was initially developed as "Dreamland Universal Pickleball Rating" to address the need for a standardized, universal rating system in the rapidly growing sport of pickleball.
Kuhn's vision was to create an entertainment destination that celebrated pickleball while also developing a rating system that would be "easy and simple" for players of all levels. The system was designed to work universally across all ages, genders, and locations, providing a common language for skill assessment in pickleball.
Corporate Restructuring
In January 2024, controlling interest in DUPR was acquired by a consortium of investors led by David Kass, with other investors including Andre Agassi, Raine Ventures (a subsidiary of The Raine Group), and Jay Farner. The acquisition involved an $8 million investment and marked a significant expansion of the company's capabilities and reach.
Following the acquisition, the company's headquarters moved to Delray Beach, Florida, and Jill Braverman, former Head of Commercial at Universal Tennis, was appointed as CEO.
Official Partnerships and Status
DUPR serves as the official rating system for the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA Tour), providing standardized ratings for professional players and tournament seeding. The system is also used by Major League Pickleball, which was founded by DUPR's creator Steve Kuhn, for player evaluation and team formation.
DUPR operates a comprehensive collegiate pickleball program that has grown from its first event in 2022 to over 250 collegiate clubs and 1,300 student athletes by 2024. The program includes regional competitions and a national championship, with the 2025 season featuring a partnership with the United Pickleball Association to create the Collegiate Pickleball Tour (CPT).
DUPR has expanded internationally, with notable partnerships including the PWR DUPR India League, which was announced in January 2025 and featured exhibition matches between tennis stars Rohan Bopanna and Andre Agassi.
Business Development
DUPR operates on a freemium model, offering basic rating services through its free mobile application while providing premium features through paid memberships. The company generates revenue through strategic partnerships with health and wellness providers, tournament organizers, and equipment manufacturers.
In June 2025, DUPR announced a partnership with Vita Bella as the official health and wellness partner of competitive pickleball, expanding the company's services beyond rating systems to include athlete wellness and performance optimization programs.
Rating System
Algorithm and Methodology
DUPR uses a modified Elo rating system algorithm that provides real-time updates to player ratings after each recorded match. The system generates separate ratings for singles and doubles play, with ratings ranging from 2.000 (beginner level) to 8.000 (professional level) in 0.001 increments.
The algorithm considers four key factors when adjusting ratings:
- Performance vs. Expectation: The system predicts expected outcomes based on current player ratings, with better-than-expected performance increasing ratings
- Match Type: Official tournaments and club play have greater influence than self-reported casual games
- Match Recency: More recent matches have greater impact on rating adjustments
- Match Volume: Increased match history leads to more stable and accurate ratings
Reliability Score
In April 2024, DUPR introduced a "Reliability Score" feature that indicates how dependable a player's rating is, ranging from 1% to 100%. A reliability score above 60% is considered reliable, with higher scores indicating more consistent match reporting and more accurate ratings.
Point Differential and Match Factors
Unlike simple win/loss systems, DUPR considers the closeness of matches in its calculations. A tight 11-9 loss may improve a player's rating more than a blowout win, reflecting the competitive nature of the match. The system also accounts for the skill level of opponents, with matches against higher-rated players having greater potential impact on ratings.
Impact and Adoption
User Base
As of 2024, DUPR is used by nearly 5,000 pickleball clubs worldwide and has integrated with over 70 partner platforms. The system has become the most widely adopted pickleball rating system globally, providing a standardized method for skill assessment across recreational and competitive play.
Community Building
DUPR functions not only as a rating system but also as a social platform, allowing players to connect with others of similar skill levels, join clubs, and organize games. This community aspect has contributed to the platform's growth and user engagement.
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