In Curling, the match score (e.g. 4–0) and the total points scored across ends are not the same thing.  Ratings are influenced by:

- the final point difference
- the number of ends played
- the rating difference between the two players

A higher-rated player is statistically expected to perform better against a lower-rated player, especially over multiple ends.  If that expectation is not met, even if the match feels “close”, the rating system will adjust accordingly.

This is intentional.  If close losses against much lower-rated players carried little or no rating penalty, players would simply choose lower-rated opponents to minimise risk, which undermines the purpose of a rating system entirely.

Also important to clarify: ratings are not a competition.  That’s what tournaments are for.  The goal of ratings is not to accumulate points, but to reflect playing strength over time.  Short-term rating changes after individual matches can feel unfair, but over a larger number of games they stabilise and become meaningful.

If Curling is about winning the game, then the focus should be on winning the game, not on the rating change after a single match.  Consistent results will always lead to a rating that reflects your level in the long run.

Same here. I have same issue