Polo in the United States has developed into one of the most organized and widely played versions of the sport outside its traditional roots in places like Argentina and the UK. Governed primarily by the United States Polo Association (USPA), the sport in the U.S. combines high-level professional competition with a strong amateur and club scene.Across the country, polo is played in regions with favorable climates and strong equestrian traditions—especially in Florida, California, and parts of the Northeast.

During the winter season, The National Polo Centre in Wellington, Florida becomes a major hub, hosting some of the most prestigious tournaments in the world and attracting top international Players.

One of the defining features of American polo culture is its structured tournament system. This includes a series of elite competitions often referred to informally as the “Gauntlet of Polo". The Gauntlet is a trio of high-goal tournaments held annually in Florida:

• The C.V. Whitney Cup

• The USPA Gold Cup

• The U.S. Open Polo Championship

Together, these tournaments form a demanding sequence that tests the consistency, endurance, and skill of top teams. To win the Gauntlet, a team must win all three events in a single season—an extremely rare and prestigious achievement. The level of play is among the highest in the world, featuring elite players with handicaps up to 10 goals (the maximum in polo).

Beyond the professional level, polo in the U.S. is notable for its accessibility compared to other countries. Many clubs offer lessons, school programs, and “arena polo” (a smaller, more affordable version played in enclosed spaces), making it easier for newcomers to enter the sport.

Overall, polo in the United States blends tradition with modern organization. The Gauntlet of Polo, in particular, represents the pinnacle of the sport in the country—showcasing not just individual brilliance, but the sustained excellence required to dominate across multiple top-tier tournaments.

United States Polo Association (USPA) - The United States Polo Association is the governing body for polo in the United States and one of the oldest in the sport, founded in 1890. The USPA is responsible for:

• Coordinating national tournaments and competitions

• Establishing handicaps and rules across the U.S.

• Supporting over 250 clubs and thousands of players

• Developing the sport through youth, collegiate, and professional programmes-

The United States remains one of the largest polo-playing nations globally, with a strong domestic circuit and growing international influence.