The PPA Tour is the premier professional pickleball circuit, featuring top players, exciting tournaments, and a structured ranking system that keeps the competition fierce. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the sport, understanding the ins and outs of the tour can enhance your appreciation of the game.
PPA Tour Stops
The 2025 PPA Tour calendar includes 26 tournaments across 16 different states, categorized into three levels:
- Slam (2000 points)
- Cup (1500 points)
- Open (1000 points)
Each tournament offers professional and amateur brackets, ensuring opportunities for players of all skill levels. Check the full PPA Tour schedule here.
How Many Tournaments Are There and Who Can Register to Play?
The PPA Tour is open to both professionals and amateurs. Anyone can register for the Pro Qualifier Draw, and those who succeed will advance to the Main Draw.
Amateur brackets cater to different age groups and skill levels, offering a chance to compete alongside the pros. Learn more about tournament registration.
PPA Rankings Explained
The PPA Rankings, presented by Southwest Rapid Rewards, award points based on tournament performance. Rankings are updated after each event and reflect two key standings:
- 52 Week Ranking – Points accumulated over the past year.
- The Race – Points earned in the current calendar year.
At the end of the season, the top 8 players qualify for the PPA Finals and compete for the prestigious World No. 1 title. See the latest PPA rankings.
How Are PPA Points Awarded?
PPA Points are distributed based on placement in men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events:
| Placement | PPA 2000 | PPA 1500 | PPA 1000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Place | 2000 | 1500 | 1000 |
| 2nd Place | 1600 | 1200 | 800 |
| 3rd Place | 1200 | 900 | 600 |
| 4th Place | 800 | 600 | 400 |
PPA Tour Main Draw & Seeding Process
Professional players with Gold Card status receive automatic bids into the Main Draw. Additionally, the PPA Seeding Committee may grant wild card entries. After finalizing the Main Draw, qualifiers are selected based on wins and point differentials.
Seeding Process:
- Top-seeded players retain their rankings.
- Lower seeds are randomized in various groupings.
Understand the PPA Tour seeding process.
Tournament Formats
The PPA Tour features two types of tournament draws:
- Progressive Draws – Each round is played on separate days.
- Traditional Draws – Entire divisions are completed daily.
Progressive draws are typically used for Slams and Cups, while traditional draws are common in Open events.
Prize Money Breakdown
Total prize money varies by tournament tier, with the highest earnings awarded at Slam events. Here’s a breakdown of prize distribution:
- Slam Events: $1,195,260 total prize pool
- Cup Events: $1,183,298 total prize pool
- Open Events: $1,171,322 total prize pool
Senior Pro divisions have different payout structures, based on participant numbers. View the full PPA prize money breakdown.
