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If you’re anything like us, your paddle is the first thing that goes into the suitcase. Sure, vacations are about beaches, food, and sightseeing… but let’s be honest: finding a pickleball court is what makes them unforgettable.

Pickleball isn’t just about playing at the same local club anymore; it’s the way we travel, the way we meet people, and the way we explore new places. Whether it’s serving on a court overlooking turquoise water in the Maldives or rallying with locals in Portugal, pickleball turns any trip into an adventure. And with DUPR, your rating is more than a number; it’s your passport to connection and community anywhere in the world.

So, if you’re the type who Googles “pickleball courts near me” before even checking into your hotel, this list is for you. From weekend getaways to bucket-list escapes, here are 10 destinations around the world worth packing your paddle for.

‍1. Cabo Pickleball Club – Mexico 

Tacos, tequila, and… pickleball? Yep, Cabo’s not just about the beach parties. With year-round sunshine and ocean views that’ll make you forget you just missed your dink, Cabo Pickleball Club is the ultimate spot to mix vacation vibes with your favorite sport.

The courts are top-notch, the competition is friendly but spicy (kind of like the salsa), and the atmosphere makes every rally feel like a party. Whether you’re squeezing in a quick game before hitting the beach or planning your whole trip around court time, this club is a must-visit for anyone chasing the best pickleball resorts in Mexico.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to check your DUPR after those Cabo games; you might just play your way into a new rating between margaritas. 

2. Yunderup Pickleball – Australia 

Nestled along the lush banks of the Murray River in Western Australia’s Peel region, Yunderup Pickleball is that rare court where the setting is as inspiring as the rallies themselves. Here’s why it’s a spot you’ll want to dial into your pickleball travel map:

• A Nature Escape That Feels Secret: Located just under an hour from Perth, Yunderup offers fresh river breezes, tree-lined courts, and a friendly “hellooo” from kookaburras overhead. It’s one of those places where you’ll actually want to linger between matches.
  
• Community First, Competition Second (Kind Of): The crew that runs things here treats you like a local the second you arrive. Whether your DUPR is 2.8, 3.5, or higher, it’s almost too easy to find someone right around your rating to square off with. The community is tight-knit but welcoming, and the club works hard to keep games balanced so everyone gets competitive (and fun) play. ‍
• Weekend Travel Vibes Just Steps Away: After matches, swap your paddle for an esky and hit the river for kayaking. Wander the nearby wineries, or throw a shrimp on the barbie with ocean views just 30 minutes away. It’s a post-game chill-state-of-mind you didn’t know you needed.

3. Algarve Pickleball Club – Portugal 

If there’s one spot in Europe that feels like it was designed for pickleball players on vacation, it’s the Algarve. The courts here are surrounded by sunshine, sea cliffs, and those ridiculously pretty Portuguese beaches you’ve probably seen on Instagram.

Morning plan? Play a couple of matches at Algarve Pickleball Club (you’ll find plenty of players right around your DUPR level). Afternoon plan? Grab fresh seafood, hit the vineyards, or just get lost in one of those tiny seaside towns where time slows down.

It’s the kind of place where you finish a rally, look up, and have to remind yourself you’re not in a postcard. Honestly, if you’re thinking about planning a pickleball trip in Europe, this is it.

4. The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu at Turtle Bay – Hawaii 

Playing pickleball in Hawaii is exactly what you’d hope for: championship-level courts surrounded by palm trees, ocean breezes, and views that make you want to slow down your warm-up just to take it all in.

After your games, you’ve got options: grab a board and hit some of the North Shore’s legendary surf breaks, or swap the paddle for a spa robe and unwind at one of the island’s most iconic resorts. Add in world-class food, sunsets that light up the sky, and the kind of atmosphere that makes every match feel special.This is pickleball travel at its finest.

Turtle Bay isn’t just another stop on your pickleball journey. It’s the kind of place where your pickleball time blends seamlessly with vacation mode, and that’s why it earns a top spot on any player’s bucket list.

5. The Verandah Antigua – Caribbean

Picture this: you’ve just finished a rally, you look up, and beyond the baseline are white sand beaches and turquoise water. At The Verandah Antigua, pickleball blends seamlessly with paradise. The courts are pristine, the vibe is relaxed, and when the games wrap up, you’re already steps away from a cocktail on the beach.

This isn’t just another vacation spot; it’s a chance to play under the Caribbean sun, meet fellow travelers who also packed their paddles, and soak in sunsets. Whether you’re in the mood for casual open play or bringing a little competitive fire, Antigua gives you both.

At The Verandah, your pickleball game comes with a side of island life and that’s a match you’ll want to play on repeat.

6. Le Logis – France

Pickleball in the French countryside? Yes, please. Le Logis is one of those spots where the vibe is just different…think quiet mornings on the court, followed by afternoons wandering vineyards or grabbing a proper French meal that makes you forget you even played.

The courts are solid, but honestly, it’s the whole experience that makes this place special. You’re rallying with friends under the European sun, then walking through cobblestone streets like you’ve stepped into another time.

If you’re chasing a trip that mixes high-quality pickleball with wine, history, and a little French charm, Le Logis should be on your list.

7. Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa – Maldives

Okay, this one’s the dream. Playing pickleball in the Maldives feels almost unreal; you’re literally hitting serves with turquoise water all around you. The courts are solid, but let’s be honest: the real flex is finishing a match and walking straight into the ocean or grabbing a cold drink on the beach.

Kagi Maldives has everything: spa days, island vibes, insane views, and of course, plenty of court time to balance it out. It’s the kind of trip where you’ll get games in, but you’ll also come home with stories that start with, “Remember that time we played pickleball on a private island…?”

This isn’t just a vacation spot; it’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that makes you glad you packed your paddle.

8. Hamilton Princess – Bermuda

They don’t call it the “Pink Palace” for nothing. It is more than just a fancy stay; it’s become a go-to spot for tennis and pickleball players visiting Bermuda. The courts are top-notch, and there’s always a chance to find someone around your DUPR level for a competitive match or a casual hit.

Once you’re off the court, you’ve got plenty to explore: colorful streets, amazing food, and that laid-back island energy that makes everything feel easy. It’s the kind of place where you can mix a few good games with plenty of downtime and walk away feeling like you got the best of both worlds.

9. Rosewood Little Dix Bay – British Virgin Islands

If pickleball in paradise is on your bucket list, Rosewood Little Dix Bay is tough to beat. Tucked into Virgin Gorda, the courts here are legit. You’ll find plenty of other guests up for a game, and if you want to sharpen your skills, there are pro-led sessions to jump into.

Off the court, it’s all about slowing down. Think ocean-front dinners, long swims, and that calm island vibe that makes you forget what day it is. Come for the pickleball, stay for everything else; you’ll head home feeling like you actually had a vacation, not just a trip.

10. Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club – Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Pickleball, ocean air, and a slice of New England charm… Ocean Edge really nails it. The courts are just steps from the breeze off Cape Cod Bay, so whether you’re in a tight singles rally or just knocking it around with friends, the setting makes it feel different than your usual club run.

And the fun doesn’t stop once you put your paddle down. You’ve got golf, bike rides, and fresh seafood waiting nearby, plus those historic Cape Cod towns that are perfect for wandering after a morning of matches. It’s the kind of spot where you can pack in competitive play and still sneak in a vacation vibe without feeling rushed.

The world’s best pickleball destinations offer more than just incredible pickleball courts; they provide unforgettable pickleball travel experiences, stunning scenery, and the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow pickleball players around the world by just simply asking them what’s their DUPR. 

From luxury resorts to scenic coastal clubs, each destination caters to beginners and seasoned players alike, proving that pickleball is a global lifestyle.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full-blown international trip, packing your paddle opens the door to new adventures, cultural exploration, and endless fun on and off the court.

Interested in U.S-only courts? We’ve got you. Check out the Top 10 Pickleball Courts in the United States here.

Ever dreamed of rocking your country’s colors while playing the sport you love? That moment is here.

Pickleball has already taken over your neighborhood courts, rec centers, and college campuses. But this fall, it’s leveling up all the way to the world stage. From October 27 to November 2, over 60 countries will battle it out at The Fort in Florida for the Pickleball World Cup.

And here’s the game-changer: DUPR is the official rating system used to select who gets to represent their nation.

That means when Team USA, Team Venezuela, Team Czech Republic, Team Peru, and dozens more march in at the opening ceremony, they’re not just carrying their flags; they’re carrying their DUPR scores.

Because in this World Cup, your DUPR isn’t just a number. It’s the universal language of pickleball. It’s what gives every underdog a chance, what makes the matchups fair, and what turns every rally into a true clash of equals.

Don’t have a DUPR yet? Here’s how to get your first pickleball rating. 

From a Family Dream to the World Stage 

It all started with two siblings from Peru: Hercilio Cabieses (DUPR 5.987) and Miranda Cabieses (DUPR 4.761). During the pandemic, pickleball brought their family together. What began as teaching in public parks, drawing chalk lines on courts, and making the sport accessible for kids, seniors, and even people in prisons turned into something much bigger.

“When we founded Pickleball Peru, we wanted to give everyone access,” said Hercilio. “But then we realized that this sport isn’t just national, it’s global. Why not create a World Cup?”

In 2023, the dream became reality. With only eight weeks of planning, 14 countries showed up in Lima, Peru for the pilot event. A year later, 32 nations competed. And this year? Over 60 countries are confirmed. 

What It Means to Represent Your Country

The pride of walking out in your country’s jersey is unmatched. Just ask the players:

• Valentina Rosales (Venezuela, age 14): “It was my first time representing Venezuela. I didn’t expect to win, I just wanted to play my best. But I ended up with two gold medals. Playing in front of flags from all over the world, feeling that pressure; it was the most amazing experience of my life.”

• Iván Pérez (Panama, Seniors): “I started playing at 58 years old. Being at the World Cup showed me I could compete at the highest level, even against pros. For me, this is our Olympics.”

• Pedro Maldonado (Puerto Rico, Open Champion): “Winning a tournament is great. But winning for Puerto Rico, with our flag on my chest? That’s a different kind of pride. When we lifted the cup, the entire island celebrated.”

• ‍Steve Rose (USA, Senior Captain): “Putting on the USA uniform is such an honor. I’ll never make the Olympics, so this is the next best thing.”

DUPR: The Pickleball World Cup’s Official Rating

For the first time, DUPR is the official rating system for team selection. That means whether you’re in Puerto Rico, Panama, or the Czech Republic, federations are using the same trusted rating to choose their rosters.

“DUPR has become the global language of pickleball,” says Hercilio. “Some federations set minimum DUPR ratings to even apply for the team. Others pick their top players based directly on their DUPR. It’s what makes competition fair across borders.”

For players, that means one thing: your DUPR is your passport. If you’ve ever dreamed of representing your country, keeping your score current is step one.

Why This World Cup Feels Different

This isn’t just a pro event. Alongside the elite matches, there’s also an International Open Tournament where juniors, seniors, and amateurs can play, repping their country’s colors even if they didn’t make the national squad.

At the end of each day, medals are tallied by country. So whether you’re battling in a 3.0 bracket or playing for gold in the Open finals, every win contributes to your nation’s total.

Add in a parade of nations, live broadcasts on Telemundo Deportes, and the energy of thousands of fans, and you’ve got a pickleball experience unlike anything else in the world.

If you are interested in attending the World Cup, you can purchase tickets here.

The Big Vision: Olympic Dreams 

The Cabieses siblings aren’t shy about it. Their dream is to make the Pickleball World Cup bigger than the FIFA World Cup one day.

Ambitious? Sure. Impossible? Not if pickleball keeps growing like it is. And with DUPR keeping the playing field fair, the stage is set for global legitimacy and maybe, just maybe, a shot at the Olympics.

Why This Matters for You

You don’t have to be pro to be inspired by the World Cup. The same team formats, DreamBreakers, and underdog stories that make the World Cup electric are popping up in DUPR Leagues and DUPR Clubs around the world.

If underdogs can upset favorites on the world stage, why not you at your next league night? Why not your team in your club’s DUPR event?

👉 Check the DUPR App to track your rating, see local events, and keep chasing your own shot at history.

Because who knows…Next year, you might be the one walking into the stadium behind your flag.

At some point, almost every pickleball player wonders: what if I could run my own club or tournament? For most, it stays just an idea. But for Indrajit Dhar, an Indian player who picked up his first paddle in 2021, it became a reality.

What started as a casual hobby quickly turned into a passion, and then into a thriving pickleball community that now runs tournaments at five different DUPR Clubs across Illinois, including his own. 

Interested in starting your own DUPR Club? Fill out this form.

It All Started Over a Beer

Indrajit first tried pickleball during the pandemic. He bought his first paddle on Amazon, stepped onto the court, and like so many others, was hooked instantly. Within months, he was drilling, learning from top players, and entering his first tournaments.

That first tournament? He won. And while celebrating with his partner over a post-match beer, a new idea was born: why not run our own tournament?

Soon after, Indrajit discovered DUPR. He recalls the excitement of seeing his rating jump after each win:

“Seeing my rating move up from a 3.5 to a 3.9 felt like getting an A+ in school. DUPR gave me a way to measure progress, and that motivated me even more.”

Today, Dhar’s DUPR pickleball rating is 5.043!

Building a Pickleball Digital Club

In July 2023, Indrajit hosted his first tournament at a local park. It was a success, and he quickly realized he had tapped into something bigger: people loved his events, and they wanted more.

He launched a Facebook page, ID & Friends Pickleball, to keep players connected. From there, the momentum exploded. Tournaments grew, prize money increased, and the community kept coming back. By October 2025, he will be hosting his seventh tournament with over $5,000 in cash prizes.

Players weren’t just signing up for the competition; they were chasing their DUPR ratings. Every match result was entered into DUPR, giving players a measurable way to track their progress and climb divisions.

Expanding to Five DUPR Clubs

As word spread, local facilities took notice. Life Sport Athletic Club approached Indrajit to be a brand ambassador for their DUPR pickleball clubs. With four locations all running DUPR leagues, Indrajit now helps oversee tournaments and events across five DUPR Clubs in Illinois.

To join ID’s club, click here.

He’s not just a tournament director; he’s become a mentor for younger players, even training juniors who are already winning medals at PPA events.

The Challenges Behind the Scenes

Indrajit recalls the early days, when players were skeptical to pay entry fees for an unknown tournament. Building trust took time, but once the community saw his dedication to giving players a great experience, the sign-ups never stopped. Today, his events fill up almost instantly.

Advice for Other Directors

Indrajit’s story shows that anyone with a paddle and some passion can build a club with DUPR’s help. His advice to other directors trying to reach full capacity?

1. Prioritize your players.‍

“My first priority has always been my participants. Treat them like customers and make sure they feel important and have a great experience.”

2. Start with community, not just marketing.‍

“Before Facebook and Instagram, you need to show up at local courts, play, help others, and build loyalty. The community will carry you.”

‍3. Deliver value from day one.‍

“My first tournament cost only $10 to enter, but I made sure players walked away with more, including sponsor gifts, a smooth experience, and real value. That built the trust that keeps them coming back.”

The Takeaway

In just three years, Indrajit went from a casual player to running tournaments across five DUPR Clubs, winning medals at Minor League Nationals, and mentoring the next generation of players. His story is proof that with passion, consistency, and a little help from DUPR, anyone can build a thriving pickleball community.

If one person can do it, so can you.

Interested in starting your own DUPR Club? Fill out this form.

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. and SAN DIEGO – August 21, 2025 – DUPR, the premier pickleball rating system, today announced a new benefit for its DUPR+ members: access to an exclusive insider deal on pickleball lessons through a new partnership with TeachMe.To, the leading marketplace for finding and booking in-person sports lessons, and the nation’s number one provider of pickleball lessons by volume.

This collaboration gives DUPR+ members a simple way to connect with vetted, high-quality pickleball coaches in their area—and the first lesson with TeachMe.To is free for subscribers. Whether players are looking to fine-tune their technique, develop new skills, or prepare for their next tournament, they can now book trusted local instructors with just a few clicks.

“Our mission at DUPR is to help pickleball players at every level get rated, improve and enjoy the game,” said Tito Machado, CEO at DUPR. “Partnering with TeachMe.To gives our DUPR+ community access to expert coaching that can make a real difference in their play.”

TeachMe.To offers a seamless booking experience, enabling players to find coaches by location, skill level, and availability, and read verified reviews before scheduling. TeachMe.To also connects people with local instructors in other sports as well — including tennis, golf, soccer and more. The company has over 5,000 active instructors on the platform, over 30,000 students, and has provided over 100,000 lessons to date.

The partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to growing the sport of pickleball and supporting its rapidly expanding community nationwide.

“The interest in pickleball continues to pick up momentum and there’s real demand for expert instructors that want to share their knowledge locally,“ said Nick O’Brien, Co-Founder and COO of TeachMe.To. “This partnership represents an opportunity for the DUPR community to not only access great coaching, but to also tap into their local pickleball economy and start teaching.”

About DUPR
DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) is the premier global pickleball rating system and technology platform, trusted by the world's leading clubs, tournaments, leagues, and players. DUPR's dynamic rating system unifies pickleball across age, gender, and location by analyzing match results to accurately evaluate all players across a 2.000 - 8.000 scale. DUPR is the official pickleball rating of leagues, tournaments and clubs around the world, including United Pickleball Association (UPA), PPA, Major League Pickleball (MLP), Pickleball.com, Life Time, The Picklr, National Team Pickleball League, National Pickleball League. It also owns and operates Minor League Pickleball and Collegiate Pickleball, two of the biggest amateur leagues in the sport. Players and operators can visit www.dupr.com to sign up and learn more.

About TeachMe.To
Learning something new can be intimidating. That's why most of us don't start. TeachMe.To's mission is to make picking up new skills easy and accessible for everyone. We make getting started easy.

Media Contact: 

TeachMe.To 

Jeff Pecor

Tailwind Public Relations

206.948.1482

jeff@tailwindpr.com

‍DUPR

Kyrill Hartog

VP Marketing & Communications

kyrill@mydupr.com

The regular season is in the books, and now it’s playoff time. This is where things get spicy: prize money, bragging rights, and egos are all on the line.

Playoffs are funny. You can grind all season, barely sneak into the bracket, and then suddenly hit your stride when it matters most. 

An “almost perfect” example comes from the NBA this year. The Indiana Pacers slid into the postseason as the #4 seed in the East with a 50–32 record. Not exactly dominant, but once the playoffs hit, they caught fire, making an incredible run all the way to the Finals before falling to OKC in a tough seven-game series. That’s the beauty of playoffs: it’s not about how you start, it’s about peaking when it matters most.

How Playoffs Work 

For those who don’t follow MLP as closely, here’s how the playoffs work: the top 10 Premier teams from the regular season qualify. The first-round play-in matches and quarterfinals took place in San Diego (Aug 15–17), while the semifinals and finals will go down in New York City (Aug 22–24).

The format is simple but intense:

• Play-in round: Single elimination, winner-take-all.
  
• Quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals:  Best-of-three match series.

One of the coolest features of the MLP playoffs? Higher seeds get to choose their opponent. That twist always adds drama. For example, in the play-in round, the #7 seed Texas Ranchers picked the #10 seed Miami Pickleball Club, leaving the Orlando Squeeze to face off against the Utah Black Diamonds.

San Diego Quick Recap: Chaos, DreamBreakers, and Statement Wins

The most surprising move of the quarterfinals? Dallas Flash choosing the Columbus Sliders. Fans scratched their heads at the matchup… until it turned into one of the wildest battles of the weekend. Every single match went to a DreamBreaker, with the Sliders coming out on top and punching their ticket to NYC. The X-factor? Columbus’ men went a perfect 3–0 against JW Johnson and Augie Ge,  a statement performance when it mattered most.

The rest of the quarterfinals were more straightforward. Three series ended in clean 2–0 sweeps. I honestly expected Brooklyn vs. LA Mad Drops to be tighter, but Ben Johns had the Brooklyn squad locked in, while Dekel Bar and the Mad Drops looked a step slow.

Over in Challenger, things unfolded exactly how I called it back at the start of the season: Las Vegas Night Owls vs. Nashville Chefs in the finals. After the Mari Humberg trade, D.C. Pickleball just couldn’t keep pace, and the door opened wide for Vegas and Nashville to step into the spotlight and compete for the title. 

NYC Predictions: What’s Coming

Here’s how the semifinal matchups shake out in New York: St. Louis Shock vs. Columbus Sliders and The 5s vs. LA Mad Drops.

Shock vs. Sliders

‍It’d be a massive upset if the Sliders pull this one off. A best 2-out-of-3 is a whole different beast compared to single elimination, and the Shock are stacked from top to bottom. They hold the #1 Men’s Team Ranking, #3 Women’s, and #1 Mixed (check DUPR’s data post). Hard to bet against that. My pick: Shock cruise to the Finals.

5s vs. Mad Drops

‍This is where things get spicy. I see this one going the distance with multiple DreamBreakers on deck. The 5s hold the edge in women’s doubles, while the Mad Drops shine in men’s, which likely makes it 1–1 after genders. Mixed could easily split too, depending on pairings. So who takes the DreamBreaker? Both squads are strong, but I’m riding with the “on-paper underdog” LA Mad Drops.

That sets up a St. Louis Shock vs. LA Mad Drops Finals  with the Shock looking for redemption after last year’s playoff collapse.

Don’t sleep on Challenger either. The finals pit the Las Vegas Night Owls vs. Nashville Chefs, and my money’s on Vegas bringing it home.

Why This Matters for You

So why should you care if you’re not playing pro pickleball? Easy: this is the same format a lot of clubs are starting to use for leagues and events. DreamBreakers, best-of-3 series, picking your opponent; it’s drama, but it’s also fun to play in.

Next time your club runs a DUPR league or team event, you’ll know the vibes:

• Expect crazy upsets.
  
• Expect clutch moments from players who peak under pressure.
  
• And remember: sometimes the underdog writes the best story.

Follow pros and keep working on your pickleball ratings!

If you’ve ever tried to juggle school, practice, and tournaments, you know how hectic life gets. Now imagine doing all of that… while being a full-time high school and college student.  That’s exactly what Mary Monson is pulling off, and she just took her game all the way to the English Open.

Balancing it all out

At just 16 years old,  Mary plays for Utah Tech University, works a part-time job, travels for tournaments, represents DUPR as an ambassador, and still finds time to train every single day. 

“It gets really busy,” she laughed. “There’s no time to waste, so I’ve learned a ton of discipline and it’s helped me on and off the court.”

Sound familiar? Yeah, she’s living the same grind as every collegiate athlete, just on fast-forward.

Mary’s family support

For Mary, the English Open was more than just another tournament.

“My mom grew up in the UK and all of her family lives there. Competing in front of them meant the world to me.”

That kind of support hits different, and it gave her extra fire.

The international game is wild 

“The European style is pure chaos,” she said with a smile. “Crazy angles, insane gets, super athletic points. It was entertaining, and honestly, I was impressed by the level of play.”

Even while sick, Mary pushed through, making the quarterfinals in doubles and mixed,  taking down top players from both Europe and the U.S.

Favorite moment? A family double win 

Mary’s highlight wasn’t just her own match.

“My Round of 16 was happening right next to my younger sister’s semifinal. We both won at the same time, celebrated together, and our whole family was there cheering. That was unforgettable.”

Big goals ahead 

She’s just getting started. Here’s what’s on Mary’s vision board:

• Win a Collegiate National Championship with Utah Tech
  
• Grab her first pro medal
  
• Get drafted into MLP
  
• One day… play pickleball in the Olympics
  

Why this matters for you

Mary’s proof that you don’t need to wait until “later” to go after it. School, training, travel …  It's a lot. But she’s showing that discipline + passion + love for the game = you can make it happen.

So the next time you’re cramming for an exam after a long practice, remember Mary’s story. She’s walking the same path  and proving you can chase big goals without giving anything up.

For more stories on collegiate players, join our “College News” channel on Instagram. 

A Harvard study on the psychology of social connection backs up what we all know: People who share common interests are more likely to match. Dating apps try to factor this in, but the reality is… they haven’t found the golden formula.

One reason is demographics. Younger users are over the swipe grind; Fortune reports that more than 75% of Gen Z users feel burnt out on apps like Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble. Some platforms have even seen a 10% drop in downloads year-over-year.

Instead, we’re experiencing a revival of IRL (in real life) interactions. So if you’re done with awkward “hey” messages and online scams, why not take it to the court instead? You’re already walking in with a BIG shared interest: pickleball. Worst case? You have a blast playing doubles. Best case? You walk away with your new life partner.

How to Meet Someone Playing Pickleball 

Pickleball Speed-Dating

Let’s start with a huge pro: you already know you’re both active, because you chose to meet playing pickleball. And unlike a regular date where you spend half the time trying to think of the next question, here you’re actually doing something you both enjoy.

In just one 11-point game, you can learn way more about a person than you would over three coffee dates. You’ll see how they handle pressure, how they make quick decisions, how they communicate, and yes… how they react to winning (or losing) a tight point. Are they cool under pressure? Do they cheer you on after a missed shot?

Or do they go full championship mode and start poaching every ball?

The red and green flags are all out in the open without filters or perfectly curated dating profiles. Just two people, a couple of paddles, and the chance to find out if your connection is as good off the court as it is on it.

During a round robin, the most common open play format,players rotate partners every few minutes, so you get to meet a bunch of people without the pressure of a traditional date. The best part? There’s no awkward silence; pickleball gives you a built-in icebreaker. 

Need conversation starters? Keep it sweet and simple by asking about their pickleball journey or their proudest DUPR rating. Want to spice it up? Go straight for the hot topic and ask what they think about DUPR’s latest algorithm update. (Pro tip: study it first so you can hold your ground in the debate.)

Singles & Mingles

More and more DUPR Clubs are adding Singles & Mingles to their weekly or bi-weekly programming. Think of it as open play with a twist: everyone there is single, ready to mingle, and has at least one passion in common (yep, pickleball).

You’ll play a few games, rotate partners, and then hang out afterward over snacks or drinks. The atmosphere is way more relaxed than a formal tournament, but still gives you that same rush of competition. And because it’s run at a DUPR Club, you know the matchups will be well-balanced, so you’re not spending the night chasing lobs or watching your partner hit every ball out.

It’s the perfect setup: you meet new people, get your DUPR logged, and maybe even line up your next date, all before you’ve even left the club.

How it’s different from Pickleball Speed Dating

While pickleball speed dating is all about quick rotations and getting to meet as many people as possible in a short time, Singles & Mingles is more of a slow-burn social night. You’ll spend longer on court with each partner, have more downtime to actually talk, and the post-play hangout is just as important as the games themselves. It’s less “fast-paced matchmaking” and more “building connections over a night of fun competition.”

From Rating Curiosity to a Matchmaking Concept

Sometimes love stories start with a serve and a third-shot drop. For Anneliese Niebauer, co-founder of  the pickleball dating app “PickleMatch",” it started with a little DUPR curiosity.

“One time I was looking at my friends’ DUPRs and I went down a DUPR rabbit hole,” she mentioned at The Kitchen Talk podcast. “I was like, mmm… who is this guy? And I thought, ‘This should be a dating app.’”

While PickleMatch, a dating app for pickleballers, has grown into its own community (with a waitlist of over 700 people for their pickleball dating events), it’s that initial spark that highlights just how much DUPR is already connecting people. Whether it’s checking out local DUPR leaderboards, joining a DUPR Club, or getting matched up at a DUPR event, your rating isn’t just a number; it’s a conversation starter.

That’s the beauty of building relationships around the game. DUPR gives you a way to find evenly matched players, track your progress, and discover new events, while also opening doors to friendships (and maybe something more) you didn’t even know were out there.

Love at First Serve?

Let’s get a little corny for a second. Picture this: you’re telling your future kids the story of how you met. Would you rather say, “We met playing pickleball,” or “We swiped right”?

We’ll take the court story any day.

Check the DUPR App to see if your local club is hosting any pickleball dating events. If they’re not, send them our way! Our DUPR Clubs Team works with facilities to build out fun, high-value programming that keeps members engaged on and off the court.

We’ve all been there: you step on the court with your doubles partner, excited to play… and by the second game, you’re giving each other the look. The truth is, poor communication can sink even the most skilled team, while good communication can make two average players feel like they’re playing like pros.

So let’s talk about how to actually talk to your partner  before, during, and after the match; so you can win more points and still want to grab a drink together after.

‍Before the Match: Set the Vibes (and the Game Plan)

This is your chance to get on the same page before the first serve.

Ask the “what if” questions now‍

What should happen if they double fault? Miss an easy return? Blow an overhead?
Do they want silence? A “you got this”? A quick tip?
Every player is different and guessing wrong in the heat of the match can make things awkward real quick.

Talk strengths and weaknesses‍

If they hate lobs and you secretly love chasing them down, speak up. If you’re a poach machine at the net, make it known. The more you know about each other, the smoother it’ll go.

You don’t both have to be perfect;  you just have to complement each other. Lean into what each of you does best, and trust your partner to cover their strengths while you cover yours.

Set a shared goal

Yeah, “let’s win” is the obvious one, but the magic happens when you get specific.
Maybe you decide, every return goes deep and we both approach the net. Or you serve to the “T” so your partner can sneak in for an erne. Those little game plans keep you locked in and give you something to rally around when things get tight.

Need help with game strategies? We’ve got a guide on where to serve and another on where to return so you can walk on court with a purpose.

Agree on signals
Hand signals for poaches, quick verbal cues like “switch” or “yours,” even a little nod. These tiny things can make a huge difference once the rally gets going.

There is no such a thing as “too much communication.”

During the Match: Be the Partner You’d Want to Play With

Call it early

‍A loud “mine” or “yours” saves rallies (and prevents those awkward paddle clashes).

Stay positive

‍No eye rolls, no sighs, no “come onnn.” Even if they keep missing every ball into the net, a quick “next one” or paddle tap goes a long way.

Give Quick, Useful Feedback (at the Right Time)

Remember that little pre-match chat you had about how they like to be spoken to when things get tough? Yeah… stick to it.
If they told you mid-game tips just add fuel to the frustration fire, resist the urge to “help” and save it for after the match.

When you do share ideas, pick your moment. Changeovers are perfect. Keep it short, specific, and positive. Skip the “Stop missing that shot” and go with “Let’s go after the middle because they’re wide open there.”

The goal is to keep your partner feeling confident and connected, not second-guessing every swing.

Read the room (aka your partner)

‍If they’re rattled, this is not the time to give them your TED Talk on third-shot drops. Sometimes, a high-five is all they need.

After the Match: Review Without Ruining the Vibe

Start with the good stuff‍

Call out the great teamwork, that one amazing rally, or how you fought back after being down 8–2.

Talk improvements as a team‍

It’s “we should try stacking” not “you need to cover the middle.” Big difference.

Make a plan for next time

Agree on one or two adjustments to test in your next match.

Bottom Line

Good doubles communication isn’t just about calling balls; it’s about building trust and having each other’s back.

Some players want tips mid-match, some just want silence and a fist bump. The only way to know? Ask them before you play.

Because winning is fun… but winning and still liking your partner after? That’s the real goal.