Quang Duong Terminated by UPA: Fans React, PPA Under Fire

The United Pickleball Association (UPA) officially terminated Quang Duong’s contract on July 12, 2025, citing multiple breaches of the exclusivity clause. The termination followed Duong’s unapproved absence from the MLP Mid‑Season Tournament in Grand Rapids, Michigan, held 9 - 13 July.

Instead of competing in the MLP event, Duong was seen hosting a commercial “Meet Up & Challenge” camp at Vinpearl Resort, Nha Trang, Vietnam. This marked his second major violation. 

Earlier, during Memorial Day weekend, he played in an unsanctioned tournament in Vietnam and was fined US $50,000, along with a suspension from one PPA and one MLP event.

League Response

The UPA stated that Duong failed to notify league officials or request approval for his absence. This action was considered a willful and material breach of contract. 

The termination letter further noted that the UPA reserves the right to take legal action should there be continued violations.

Community & Media Reaction

Zane Navratil, a fellow pro and analyst, labeled the news “breaking,” stating that the UPA is serious about enforcing their contracts and “doesn’t mess around with exclusivity clauses.”

On the PPA Tour’s Instagram post announcing Duong’s termination:

• Strong support for Duong’s decision: Many fans expressed admiration for his choice to prioritize personal engagements in Vietnam.
• Criticism of PPA/UPA: Numerous comments condemned the UPA and PPA leadership for being overly punitive and inflexible. 

Some comments:

• If you actually came to Vietnam you would see how he has single handedly turned pickleball into a national craze. You can play pickleball here morning, noon and night, and it's all because of him. To fire him for promoting the sport in his family's home country, thousands of miles away, is ridiculous. He is so beloved here. It is certainly your loss. He is a credit to the sport!
• He may have broken the agreement but you don’t publicly post someone’s termination unless your intent was to shame him. The shame is on UPA for showing no class.

Image via Intagram

Broader Social Buzz:

Echoing the Instagram sentiment, comments on other platforms lamented PPA’s enforcement stance, questioning whether the league should allow more autonomy. Some argued Duong is leveraging his regional influence, with others accusing the league of stifling innovation.

Notably, many Reddit voices defended Duong’s brand-building and autonomy, while others emphasized the importance of contractual compliance.

Analysis & Implications

Financial Priorities & Business Strategy

According to NML Pickleball and The Dink, Quang Duong and his father, Duc, have been actively building a business and brand in Vietnam, including clinics, partnerships, and sponsorships. 

There’s speculation that Duong may earn more outside UPA/MLP than under his prior contract, which was estimated at $300K annually.

Image via Instagram

League Precedent

UPA is clearly enforcing exclusivity clauses strictly - QD’s termination sends a strong disciplinary message to all players.

By terminating Duong’s contract, they reinforce a no-tolerance policy on breaches.

Duong’s Next Chapter

Duong’s exit from the UPA ecosystem may allow him to pursue Asia-focused opportunities more freely. 

His loyal Vietnamese fanbase and established presence in the region could give him a new runway for personal branding, coaching, and commercial expansion.

What’s Next? 

Official Statement from Quang Duong? None as of now, though he remains active on social media.

Will UPA Pursue Legal Action? The league has kept the option open but hasn’t confirmed next steps.

Can Duong Thrive Outside MLP? With a strong regional audience and brand deals in Asia, Duong may chart a new path that’s less reliant on UPA systems.