Who is Anna Leigh Waters? Inside the Life of a Pickleball Superstar

I have a confession to make—I’m officially jealous of a teenager. While most 18-year-olds are trying to figure out how to adult, Anna Leigh Waters is out here raking in $3 million a year playing pickleball. Meanwhile, I’m just trying to justify ordering DoorDash again.

How did she do it? Was she bitten by a radioactive pickleball paddle? Did she make a secret deal with the pickleball gods? Nope—just pure talent, dedication, and maybe a bit of destiny. From a chance encounter with the sport to becoming its biggest star, her story is nothing short of legendary. So, grab your paddle (or at least a snack), and let’s dive into the incredible rise of Anna Leigh Waters.

Table of Contents

• Early Life and Introduction to Pickleball
• Dominance on the Court
• A Multi-Million Dollar Career
• The Future of Pickleball with Anna Leigh Waters
• Final Thoughts
• FAQ

Early Life and Introduction to Pickleball

Anna Leigh Waters was born on January 26, 2007, into a family that valued sports and competition. From a young age, she displayed a natural athleticism, excelling in soccer and showing promise as a future star athlete. Her competitive spirit and determination were evident even in her early years, as she trained rigorously and dreamed of making a name for herself in the sports world.

However, fate had a different plan for Anna Leigh. In 2017, when Hurricane Irma forced her family to evacuate their home, they found themselves in Florida—a state that would unknowingly become the birthplace of her pickleball career. During their stay, her mother, Leigh Waters, stumbled upon pickleball, a sport that was rapidly gaining popularity for its accessibility and fast-paced gameplay. Intrigued, Leigh decided to give it a try, and soon after, she introduced it to her daughter.

What started as a casual pastime quickly turned into a passion for Anna Leigh. The sport’s unique blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong resonated with her athletic skills, and she took to it like a natural. With her mother as her doubles partner, the duo began practicing relentlessly, honing their skills and developing a chemistry that would soon dominate the pickleball scene.

At just 12 years old, Anna Leigh made history by becoming the youngest professional pickleball player ever—a title that catapulted her into the spotlight. Her rapid rise was fueled by her relentless work ethic, natural talent, and the unwavering support of her family. Together, Anna Leigh and her mother formed a formidable team, earning recognition for their synergy and dominance on the court.

This unexpected turn of events—from a hurricane evacuation to discovering a life-changing sport—shows how chance encounters can lead to extraordinary opportunities. For Anna Leigh Waters, pickleball wasn’t just a game; it was the beginning of a journey that would redefine her life and the sport itself.

Dominance on the Court

Anna Leigh Waters isn’t just a pickleball player—she’s a force of nature on the court. Competing in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, she has established herself as one of the most versatile and dominant athletes in the sport. Her ability to excel across all formats is a testament to her exceptional skill, strategic mindset, and relentless drive to win.

In Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) events, Waters is a regular fixture on the podium, often leaving her competitors in awe of her prowess. Her aggressive playing style, characterized by powerful groundstrokes and pinpoint accuracy, keeps opponents on their toes. Combined with her lightning-fast reflexes and ability to anticipate plays, she has redefined what it means to be a top-tier pickleball player.

One of Waters’ most remarkable traits is her mental toughness. Whether she’s facing a seasoned veteran or a rising star, she approaches every match with the same level of focus and determination. Her ability to stay calm under pressure and adapt to different playing styles has earned her a reputation as a clutch performer, often turning the tide of a match in her favor with a single, well-timed shot.

Her dominance isn’t limited to individual success. Alongside her mother and doubles partner, Leigh Waters, Anna Leigh has formed one of the most formidable teams in pickleball history. Their chemistry on the court is unparalleled, with seamless communication and complementary playing styles that make them nearly unstoppable. Together, they’ve claimed numerous titles and cemented their legacy as one of the sport’s greatest duos.

In mixed doubles, Waters continues to shine, pairing her explosive energy with the strengths of her partners to create dynamic and unpredictable gameplay. Her versatility and adaptability have made her a sought-after teammate and a nightmare for opponents.

Through her consistent performances and trailblazing achievements, Anna Leigh Waters has set a new standard for excellence in pickleball. She’s not just winning matches—she’s inspiring a generation of players to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the sport.

A Multi-Million Dollar Career

At just 18 years old, Anna Leigh Waters has not only revolutionized pickleball but has also built a multi-million dollar career that most athletes can only dream of. With an estimated annual income of $3 million, she has become one of the highest-earning players in the sport—a remarkable feat for someone so young.

Her earnings come from a diverse portfolio of revenue streams. Tournament winnings make up a significant portion, as Waters consistently ranks among the top competitors in Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) events. Her dominance on the court has translated into numerous championship titles, prize money, and accolades, solidifying her status as a pickleball superstar.

However, it’s not just her on-court success that fuels her income. Waters has become a sought-after brand ambassador, securing lucrative sponsorships and endorsements with major companies in the sports and lifestyle industries. As a sponsored athlete for Paddletek, she uses their high-performance paddles, and her association with the brand has helped elevate both her profile and theirs. Additionally, she partners with other brands that align with her image as a young, dynamic, and inspiring athlete, further boosting her earnings.

Beyond sponsorships, Waters has tapped into the growing popularity of pickleball by hosting coaching clinics and workshops. These events not only provide aspiring players with the opportunity to learn from one of the best but also serve as an additional revenue stream. Her ability to connect with fans and share her expertise has made her a beloved figure in the pickleball community.

Waters’ financial success is a reflection of her hard work, talent, and the rapid growth of pickleball as a mainstream sport. Her ability to capitalize on her fame and skill has set a new benchmark for what athletes in niche sports can achieve. More importantly, her career serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere, proving that with dedication and the right opportunities, it’s possible to turn passion into prosperity.

As pickleball continues to gain traction globally, Anna Leigh Waters is poised to expand her brand even further, potentially venturing into media, merchandise, and other entrepreneurial endeavors. Her multi-million dollar career is not just a testament to her talent but also a glimpse into the future of sports and athlete monetization.

The Future of Pickleball with Anna Leigh Waters

As pickleball continues its meteoric rise as one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, Anna Leigh Waters stands at the forefront of this movement, poised to become an even bigger icon. Her influence extends far beyond the court, as she not only dominates competitions but also inspires a new generation of players to pick up a paddle and embrace the sport.

Waters’ success has come at a pivotal time for pickleball. Once considered a niche pastime for retirees, the sport has exploded in popularity, attracting players of all ages and skill levels. With its low barrier to entry, social appeal, and thrilling gameplay, pickleball is now a mainstream phenomenon, and Waters is its brightest star. Her youthful energy, undeniable talent, and relatable story have made her a role model for aspiring athletes, particularly young girls who see her as proof that they too can achieve greatness.

Looking ahead, Waters is set to play a key role in shaping the future of pickleball. As the sport gains more visibility through televised tournaments, social media, and celebrity endorsements, her star power will only grow. She has the potential to become a global ambassador for pickleball, helping to introduce the sport to new audiences and markets around the world. Her presence in high-profile events and media appearances will further cement pickleball’s place in the sports landscape.

Beyond her competitive career, Waters is likely to explore new opportunities that align with her passion for the sport. This could include launching her own line of pickleball gear, writing instructional books, or even creating online training programs to help players improve their skills. Her entrepreneurial spirit and deep understanding of the game position her as a trailblazer in the pickleball industry.

Moreover, Waters’ impact on the sport goes beyond her individual achievements. By mentoring young players, advocating for inclusivity, and promoting pickleball as a fun and accessible activity, she is helping to build a vibrant and diverse community of players. Her dedication to growing the sport ensures that pickleball will continue to thrive for years to come.

In the coming years, Anna Leigh Waters is not just expected to break more records and win more titles—she is set to become a cultural icon who transcends the sport itself. As pickleball evolves, so too will her legacy, leaving an indelible mark on the game and inspiring countless others to follow in her footsteps.

Final Thoughts

Alright, let’s be real for a second. After reading all of this, I’m officially having a mid-life crisis at the ripe old age of 49. Anna Leigh Waters is out here living her best life—dominating pickleball, raking in millions, and probably sipping smoothies with celebrities while I’m over here struggling to parallel park without crying. I mean, she’s 18 and already a legend, and I’m just proud of myself for remembering to water my plants this week.

But you know what? Instead of wallowing in self-pity (okay, maybe just a little wallowing), I’ve decided it’s time to channel my inner Anna Leigh. Sure, I might not have her lightning-fast reflexes or her ability to turn a pickleball paddle into a weapon of mass destruction, but I do have a paddle I bought on sale last year and a dream. And honestly, isn’t that all you really need?

So, whether you’re a pickleball pro who can dink like a champ or someone who just learned that pickleball isn’t a condiment, let’s take a page out of Anna Leigh’s playbook. Let’s grab our paddles, hit the court, and pretend we’re one backhand away from greatness. Who knows? Maybe we’ll discover a hidden talent. Or maybe we’ll just trip over the net and provide some comic relief for everyone watching. Either way, it’s a win-win.

One thing’s for sure: Anna Leigh Waters isn’t just playing pickleball—she’s rewriting the rules, breaking records, and making the rest of us question every life choice we’ve ever made. And honestly, I’m here for it. So, here’s to Anna Leigh, the queen of the court, and to all of us who are just trying to keep up without spraining something. Game on!

FAQ

Who is Anna Leigh Waters' partner?

Anna Leigh Waters' primary doubles partner is her mother, Leigh Waters. The mother-daughter duo is one of the most successful teams in pickleball history, known for their incredible chemistry and dominance on the court. Together, they’ve won numerous titles and continue to inspire fans with their teamwork and mutual support.

Did Anna Leigh Waters play soccer?

Yes, before becoming a pickleball phenom, Anna Leigh Waters was an avid soccer player. Her athletic background in soccer helped her develop the agility, coordination, and competitive mindset that she now brings to the pickleball court. It’s safe to say that her transition from soccer to pickleball was a slam dunk—or should we say, a perfect dink?

What is Anna Leigh Waters' age?

Anna Leigh Waters was born on January 26, 2007, making her 18 years old as of February 2025. Despite her young age, she’s already achieved more than most athletes do in a lifetime, proving that greatness knows no age limit.

What paddle does Anna Leigh Waters use?

Anna Leigh Waters is sponsored by Paddletek and uses the Paddletek TS-5 paddle. Known for its power, control, and durability, the TS-5 is a favorite among top players and perfectly complements her aggressive playing style. If you’re looking to up your game, this paddle might just be your secret weapon!

What are some of Anna Leigh Waters' notable achievements?

Anna Leigh Waters has an impressive list of accomplishments that solidify her as one of the greatest pickleball players of all time. Some of her most notable achievements include:

• Winning multiple Triple Crowns (victories in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles at the same tournament).

• Earning six US Open gold medals, one of the most prestigious titles in pickleball.

• Securing six USAPA Nationals Gold Medals, showcasing her consistency and dominance across different events.

• Becoming the youngest professional pickleball player in history at just 12 years old.

Her trophy cabinet is overflowing, and with her career still in its early stages, there’s no doubt she’ll add even more accolades to her name in the coming years.