The disc golf app Upsi has launched the world’s first open handicap system, enabling fair head-to-head play between players of all skill levels.

Helsinki, Finland, 4.4.2025. Disc golf is one of the most accessible sports in the world and that’s a big part of its charm. From casual players with a single disc to those training with serious intent, anyone can take part. But when skill levels vary, the outcome is often predictable, reducing the competitive thrill for everyone.

With Upsi’s new handicap system, that limitation is finally gone.

Until now, handicap systems have only been available by some service providers for some organized competitions. Upsi’s new groundbreaking open handicap system is the first in the world that is accessible to everyone regardless whether they’re a casual thrower or a serious competitor.

“In golf, handicap system was a huge driver making it a lifelong, widely-played sport rather than something just for the pros. We are thrilled to do the same for disc golf.”, Jonas Pomoell, Upsi’s co-founder comments.

AI uses Upsi Rating to calculate the score adjustment

The Upsi app automatically calculates a personalized score adjustment based on the player’s Upsi rating and the difficulty of the course layout. This adjustment is applied dynamically, hole by hole, as the round progresses keeping the excitement alive to the last hole.

Each player’s score is effectively measured against their own skill level on that specific layout. Meaning the one who performs best relative to their ability wins. It makes challenging anyone - whether a friend, family member, or even a local pro - not only possible, but exciting. Handicap rounds are also available when playing alone making it a great way for a player to challenge themself.

“In Upsi we have always worked towards including everyone to the sport of disc golf. With this new feature we are making it more fun and more exciting for players of different skill level to enjoy the sport together.”, Pomoell continues.

How It Works

Playing a handicap round is as seamless as any standard round in Upsi. Handicap scoring is available for singles stroke play, while formats like match play, skins, and doubles are always played using actual scores.

1. Handicap scoring is enabled by default, and each player’s adjustment is displayed before the round begins.

2. Scores are entered as usual, with no extra steps and the app handles all calculations in the background.

3. The scorecard is updated automatically, applying handicap adjustments hole by hole.

4. Adjusted scores are visible live in the app, online, and in notifications. Actual throw counts are always available as well.

Available Now for Upsi Black Subscribers

The new handicap system is now available for all Upsi Black subscribers. In keeping with Upsi’s inclusive model, it’s enough that one player in the group has an active subscription. Everyone in the round gets to enjoy the feature together. A subscription starts at just $1.67/month with an annual plan ($19.99/year) and includes access to many other premium features. At the same time, playing rounds with actual scores remains completely free, continuing Upsi’s mission to keep disc golf accessible to everyone.

Handicap system is rolling out to all Upsi Disc Golf app users over the next 12 hours and requires the latest version of the Upsi app:

• Android: version 1.19.9 or newer

• iOS: version 1.19.6 or newer

The Upsi app is available for free on Apple App Store and Google Play