Nike headquarters.“ What Nike is capable of doing,” she says,“ can really help elevate the sport.”
What impressed her most was how Nike immediately approached pickleball as distinct from tennis.“ The first thing they said was,‘ We know pickleball isn’ t tennis.’”
Rather than simply placing a logo on existing products, Waters says Nike has asked for her input on how apparel and footwear should evolve for pickleball specifically.
With Franklin, her paddle partnership is similarly collaborative. Waters describes testing prototypes and refining performance details before each product reaches the market.“ When it comes out,” she says,“ I want it to be perfect.”
In another announcement earlier this year, Waters’ influence is stretching beyond equipment and performance. Ulta Beauty has named her to its Ulta Beauty Roster, a group of elite female athletes across sports including basketball, tennis, soccer, volleyball, flag football, and pickleball. The initiative highlights athletes who represent how beauty in sports is not just cosmetic but a catalyst for confidence and achievement.
As her platform grows, Waters has begun thinking about giving back. She has already participated in clinics and charitable efforts supporting organizations like Make- A-Wish, St. Jude Children’ s Research Hospital, and local YMCA programs.
With her schedule dominated by tour travel, consistency can be difficult, but the intention is clear— she is using her influence not just to grow pickleball, but to create opportunities for young players and families beyond the court.
When she’ s not competing, Waters’ interests remain refreshingly normal for someone in such an unusual position.“ I love cooking,” she says. Then laughs,“ Cooking, baking, and eating!”
After tournaments she often needs time to rest, sometimes spending a full day recovering. She also
ANNA LEIGH WATERS WON THE GOLD MEDAL IN WOMEN’ S SINGLES, DEFEATING KATE FAHEY AT THE 2026 PPA CARVANA MESA CUP.
enjoys shopping with her mom— a reminder that despite the spotlight, she is still a teenager navigating through life.
Her YouTube channel has given fans a glimpse into that side of her. Waters enjoys featuring a mix of guests— chefs, influencers, fellow athletes, and friends— because she genuinely enjoys meeting people from different worlds.
When asked who keeps her grounded, Waters points to the people around her— family, coaches, trainers, and other in the group traveling with her.
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MARCH / APRIL 2026 | MAGAZINE 33