Phoenix, AZ — December 2025 — The Ultimate Pickleball League (UPL) is proud to announce a major milestone in league history: Costa Rica has officially joined the UPL, becoming the first international country to enter the league with an initial roster of eight city teams.
This expansion marks a defining moment for the UPL’s global vision — taking the fastest-growing sport in America and planting it firmly on the world stage.
Eight Cities, One Mission
Costa Rica will debut with eight competitive city teams (cities to be announced), each representing their region with the same energy, pride, and community-driven spirit that has fueled the UPL’s growth across the United States. These teams will participate in the UPL’s official structure, including regional play, national rankings, sponsorship opportunities, and future international championship pathways.
A Gateway to Global Competition
UPL Founder & CEO Charles Farr shared:
“This is a huge step for the league and the sport. Costa Rica has a strong, passionate pickleball community, and giving them a place in the UPL family sets the tone for where this league is heading — international, inclusive, and competitive.”
Why Costa Rica?
Costa Rica represents everything the UPL stands for: community, athletic growth, and a love for the game. The country has shown rapid expansion in pickleball participation, making it a natural first partner for the league’s international efforts. With youth development, future junior academies, and global exhibition opportunities on the horizon, Costa Rica is positioned to be a long-term pillar of the league.
What This Means for Players & Fans
- Eight new teams entering league play
- International matchups in future seasons
- Expanded opportunities for sponsorship, broadcasting, and athlete development
- A new chapter toward a truly global UPL
About the Ultimate Pickleball League (UPL)
The UPL is a semi-professional, city-based pickleball league designed to bridge the gap between recreational play and professional competition. With rapidly expanding national and international teams, the league provides structured competition, player development, community engagement, and a platform to elevate the sport for generations to come.
