Anna Leigh Waters has quickly become one of the most recognized names in pickleball. And what’s even more impressive? She’s only 17 years old. Born on January 26, 2007, in Delray Beach, Florida, Anna’s journey into sports wasn’t random. It was built on a foundation of family, passion, and relentless practice.
Athletic Roots in the Family
Anna grew up in an active household. Her mother, Leigh Waters, played a huge role in shaping her early interest in sports. Leigh was a former athlete herself and introduced Anna to pickleball during a family trip. What began as just a fun bonding activity soon became a serious commitment. Leigh didn’t just coach her daughter—she played alongside her.
They entered their first major competition together in 2019. That year, Anna won the Women’s Doubles Pro title at the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, teaming up with her mother. It wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. A young teenager had arrived on the pro scene and wasn’t just participating. She was dominating.
Rise in Competitive Pickleball
From that first big win, Anna Leigh’s career took off. She’s become a regular name at every major pickleball event. Her record is stacked. So far, she’s won:
- 36 singles titles
- 31 women’s doubles titles
- 33 mixed doubles titles
That’s a total of 100 professional titles—and she’s not even 18 yet.
What’s unique about Anna is her versatility. Some players are great at singles. Others shine in doubles. But Anna can switch between formats and still come out on top. That kind of adaptability is rare in any sport.
Earning Power at Seventeen
Despite pickleball being a newer sport, Anna has managed to turn her skills into serious earnings. As of 2024, her estimated net worth stands around $1.4 million. That includes prize money, sponsorship deals, and social media partnerships.
Tournament winnings form a big chunk of her income. Though exact figures from events aren’t always public, the growth of the sport and the rise in event sponsorships mean that top players like Anna take home sizeable checks.
On top of that, Anna is a marketing powerhouse. Her age and achievements make her appealing to major athletic and lifestyle brands. Paddletek, one of the biggest paddle companies in the U.S., signed her early on. It was a smart move—her visibility gave the brand a major boost.
She also has deals with FILA and Skechers, both of which value her image as a young, energetic athlete. These endorsements are about more than just logos on gear. They involve product launches, social campaigns, and appearances. That means more visibility and more income.
Social Media & Sponsorship Influence
In today’s world, sports stardom isn’t just about what happens on the court. It’s also about how you connect with fans. Anna has embraced this side of her career with the same focus she brings to matches.
She’s active on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, sharing everything from training routines to tournament highlights. Her content is fun, relatable, and often gives a behind-the-scenes peek into her life as a pro athlete.
This presence opens more doors. Fitness brands, health products, and even lifestyle companies now want to work with her. Being a role model at her age, especially in a sport that’s still growing, gives her a unique platform.
Focused on the Game
While many teens are thinking about school dances or weekend hangouts, Anna’s main focus is pickleball. She’s kept her personal life private and remains committed to growing her game. There are no dating rumors or distractions in the headlines—just a young athlete on a mission.
She’s also passionate about giving back. Anna promotes youth sports and encourages kids to stay active. Her efforts help get more young people involved in pickleball. And that’s something the sport really needs to grow and reach new audiences.
A Bright Future Ahead
Anna isn’t slowing down. If anything, she’s just getting started. With the increasing popularity of pickleball across the U.S. and internationally, opportunities for athletes like her will only expand.
More tournaments are offering larger prize pools. More brands are investing in the sport. And more kids are picking up paddles, inspired by players like Anna.
She’s positioned perfectly to lead the charge. Whether it’s winning championships, signing new sponsorships, or simply motivating the next generation, Anna Leigh Waters is at the center of pickleball’s rise.
More Than Just Titles
Anna’s influence isn’t only in her trophies. It’s in how she plays—with energy, focus, and style. It’s also in how she represents young athletes. She proves that age isn’t a barrier to professionalism or excellence.
She’s also helping redefine how people view pickleball. No longer just a casual game for parks and rec centers, it’s becoming a real competitive sport—with its own stars, drama, and growing fan base.
At just 17 years old, Anna Leigh Waters has already built a career most athletes would dream of. And the best part? She’s still evolving. With a mix of family support, athletic discipline, and business savvy, she’s set to remain a key name in the sports world for years to come.
Her story is more than just sports success. It’s about passion, potential, and the power of believing in yourself—no matter your age.