Upa Works To Extend Pro Contracts, Will Pay Out Millions In Prize Money

The United Pickleball Association (UPA) has unveiled a game-changing proposal to energize the pro pickleball landscape. On June 23, the UPA announced its plans for a massive prize pool in 2026—on top of players’ guaranteed salaries—that is designed to reward performance and grow the sport globally.

By the Numbers

• $11 million in guaranteed contracts from 2026–2028

• $15 million in prize money across the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP)

• $5 million in international prize money opportunities⁠⁠

The UPA will deliver up to $31 million in total player earnings starting in 2026.

How It Works

Guaranteed Salary Redesign
The original player contracts that run from 2024–2026 will have their final-year guarantees split into equal annual payments across 2026–2028. For example, a $300,000 guarantee for 2026 becomes $100,000/year over the next three years, extending the amount of time that each player is paid by the UPA.

This allows pros to retain their status as a UPA Touring Pro for two additional years, giving them enhanced access to prize money, sponsorships, broadcast opportunities, tournament registration, amenities on-site, and exposure, as well as additional rights and privileges.

Massive Prize Pot Added
Players can now earn their way through their tournament results, with $15 million awarded in domestic prize money and $5 million awarded internationally, marking a shift from mainly salary-based agreements to more performance-based rewards - a system that is mirrored by other professional sports such as tennis and golf.

Who’s Eligible & When to Sign

Gold Contracts
Players who signed during Fall 2023 prior to the merger between the PPA and MLP will be eligible to sign their new contracts from July 1 – August 15, 2025.

Standard Contracts
Available to players who joined post-2023, signable from August 15 – September 23, 2025.

New & Futures Contracts
Opportunities for unsigned or emerging players to sign a UPA contract run from September 23, 2025 through November 1, 2025.

Why This Is a Win-Win

Performance Rewards
The new structure puts a renewed focus on competition. Players now “eat what they kill”—win more, earn more.

Global Growth
Increased international prize money helps expand pro pickleball worldwide and encourage global participation.

Sustainable Income
Diversification of earning opportunities means pros can enjoy financial security via guaranteed contracts, as well as increased competitive motivation thanks to performance-based payouts.

The Bottom Line

The UPA is taking an ambitious leap forward. By combining $11M in guaranteed contracts with $20M in prize money, it’s sending the message that top-tier performance now pays like never before. For pros, this is an opportunity to elevate their game and their earnings.

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