The tournament leverages the existing Minor League Pickleball (MiLP) infrastructure, which currently hosts 20,000 monthly participants across 20 countries. By utilizing DUPR’s skill-based rating system, organizers intend to host nation-versus-nation matchups that remain competitive across multiple proficiency levels. Each country is restricted to one qualifying team per division, forcing squads to navigate domestic and regional tournaments to secure their spot on the global roster.
In section Releases
Pickleball’s New Nations Cup Opens Global Stage to Amateur Players
Amateur pickleball players will soon trade local courts for international jerseys as DUPR launches the Nations Cup. Debuting at the 2027 Minor League Pickleball Championships in February, the competition moves beyond professional-only circuits to allow everyday athletes to represent their home countries through a tiered qualification system.
Caroline Luelf, Director of Minor League Pickleball, noted that the expansion acknowledges the amateur base that has served as the primary engine for the sport's rapid growth. The event will run concurrently with the broader MiLP Championships in a week-long showcase. While specific registration timelines and regional pathways are pending, the initiative signals a shift toward formalizing international amateur play, mirroring the team-based structures found in more established global sports.
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