Frequently Asked
Questions

1. What is the PCP Ranking System?

The PCP Ranking System is a standardised system that ranks players based on their performance in PCP-sanctioned tournaments. It aims to provide an objective measure of a player's skill and achievements in competitive pickleball.

2. Who oversees the Pickleball World Ranking System?

The ranking system is generally managed by PCP Asia.

3. What will my data and tournament results be used for?

PCP uses its players’ details and results to rank them according to their age group, gender, event(s) and skill levels (divisions). Hence, players will be able to check which tournaments they would be eligible to participate in.

4. Why do you have PCP ranking points and divisions?

PCP Rankings are implemented for the following reasons:

Skill Level Differentiation

Fair Competition: Divisions allow players to compete against others with similar skill levels, ensuring that matches are competitive and fair. This helps prevent mismatched play that can occur when players of significantly different abilities face each other.
Encouragement and Growth: Players can progress through divisions as they improve their skills, which provides motivation and recognition for their development in the sport.

Structured Pathways for Advancement

Clear Progression: Divisions provide a structured pathway for players to advance in competition as they meet specific performance criteria. This structured advancement adds to the excitement and ambition of players seeking to climb the ranks.
Recognition of Accomplishments: Earning a higher ranking in a particular division is a tangible acknowledgement of a player’s dedication, hard work, and success in the sport.

Enhanced Tournament Organization

Seeding and Matchups: In tournaments, divisions help organizers create brackets that group players appropriately, leading to better matchups and a more orderly event format. Higher-ranked players can be seeded against lower-ranked players in the early rounds to help ensure the best competitors reach the later stages.
Audience Engagement: Having divisions allows for varied matchups which can attract a broader audience, as spectators may be interested in different divisions based on age, level of play, or gender.

Promoting Sportsmanship and Community

Positive Experiences: By participating in divisions that match their skills and interests, players are more likely to have enjoyable experiences. This can enhance their commitment to the sport and foster a positive community atmosphere.
Rivalries and Friendships: Competing against others in the same division helps develop rivalries and friendships among players, building a sense of community and connection within the sport.

5. How are rankings calculated?

Rankings are typically calculated based on players' performance in various sanctioned tournaments, taking into account factors such as:

Tournament tier and level of competition.
Match results, including win/loss records.
Points earned based on how far players advance in the tournament.

6. What tournaments are included in the ranking system?

The ranking system includes all officially sanctioned pickleball tournaments, which may range from local, regional, national, to international events. Only tournaments that adhere to set sanctioning criteria are included.

7. How frequently are rankings updated?

Rankings are generally updated regularly every month as results need to go through an auditing process before they are recognised as official.

8. Do I need to be a member of a specific organization to be ranked?

Players do not need to be members of specific organizations to be ranked on our PCP Ranking System.

9. Can players from different countries be ranked together?

Yes, the PCP Ranking System allows players from different countries to be ranked together as long as they compete in sanctioned events that contribute to the global ranking.

10. Are there separate rankings for different divisions or formats?

Yes, the ranking system may include separate rankings for various divisions of skill levels, age groups, genders and events, reflecting the diversity of play in the sport.

11. What should I do if I notice an error in my ranking?

If you believe there is an error in your ranking or the ranking of another player, you should contact us for the rankings with relevant details, such as tournament results and dates for verification.

12. How can I improve my ranking?

To improve your ranking, focus on participating in more sanctioned tournaments, improving your skill level through training and practice, and performing well in these competitions. Wins against higher-ranked opponents can significantly increase your points.

13. What happens to my ranking if I don’t compete for a while?

If a player does not participate in sanctioned tournaments for an extended period, their ranking may drop due to the lack of recent competitive performance.

14. Is the ranking system used for seeding in tournaments?

Yes, our PCP rankings are used to seed players in tournaments, helping to ensure a fair and competitive structure.

15. How does the ranking system impact player recognition?

Higher rankings can lead to greater visibility and recognition in the pickleball community, potential sponsorship opportunities, and invitations to elite events or competitions, which can enhance a player's credibility and career in the sport.