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A theory of knockout tournament seedings

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  • Karpov, Alexander

Abstract

This paper provides nested sets and vector representations of knockout tournaments. The paper introduces classification of probability domain assumptions and a new set of axioms. Two new seeding methods are proposed: equal gap seeding and increasing competitive intensity seeding. Under different probability domain assumptions, several axiomatic justifications are obtained for equal gap seeding. A discrete optimization approach is developed. It is applied to justify equal gap seeding and increasing competitive intensity seeding. Some justification for standard seeding is obtained. Combinatorial properties of the seedings are studied.

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  • Karpov, Alexander, 2015. "A theory of knockout tournament seedings," Working Papers 0600, University of Heidelberg, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:awi:wpaper:0600
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Amelia Bădică & Costin Bădică & Ion Buligiu & Liviu Ion Ciora & Doina Logofătu, 2021. "Dynamic Programming Algorithms for Computing Optimal Knockout Tournaments," Mathematics, MDPI, vol. 9(19), pages 1-24, October.

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    Keywords

    elimination tournament; competitive intensity; fairness; economics of sport.;
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