At just 18 years old, Anna Leigh Waters has become one of the most successful young athletes in the world — with an estimated net worth of over $1.4 million, projected to exceed $3 million by 2026.
Her incredible rise in the world of pickleball has made her both a sporting sensation and the face of a rapidly growing global movement.
From dominating tournaments to partnering with major brands, Waters’ journey exemplifies how passion, family support, and opportunity can redefine an entire sport.
From Backyard Beginnings To Pickleball Stardom
Anna Leigh Waters’ story began unexpectedly in 2017 when her family evacuated Florida during Hurricane Irma and relocated temporarily to Pennsylvania.
There, she was introduced to pickleball by her grandfather — a chance moment that would change her life forever.
At just 11 years old, Anna Leigh filled in for her mom, Leigh Waters, during a doubles tournament in Dallas.
To everyone’s surprise, the mother-daughter duo not only competed but took home a silver medal in the professional division. This marked the start of a legendary partnership that would soon make history.
By age 12, Anna Leigh officially became the youngest professional pickleball player ever, blending her tennis-honed athleticism with sharp instincts and natural talent.
Today, she holds the No. 1 world ranking across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles — a feat that solidifies her place as the sport’s defining figure.
Dominance On The Court: Triple Crowns And PPA Tour Success
Anna Leigh’s reign continued with an electrifying start to the 2025 Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) season.
At the PPA Masters in Rancho Mirage, California, she claimed her 31st career Triple Crown, winning gold medals in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
-
Women’s Singles: She dominated No. 5 seed Kaitlyn Christian, winning 11–0, 11–6 — her third consecutive Triple Crown at the Masters.
-
Women’s Doubles: Partnering with Catherine Parenteau, she defeated Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher, reinforcing their dominance as one of the best pairs in the sport.
-
Mixed Doubles: With Ben Johns, she overcame Federico Staksrud and Parenteau in four games, proving her unmatched consistency and adaptability.
These victories not only underline Waters’ excellence but also her role in elevating pickleball to new competitive heights.
Earnings Breakdown: How Anna Leigh Waters Built A $3 Million Empire
Anna Leigh Waters’ financial success mirrors her on-court dominance. Her agent, Kelly Wolf, confirmed that she is set to earn more than $3 million annually, surpassing many seasoned professionals in more established sports.
Her income streams include:
-
Tournament Winnings: Regular victories in major PPA and MLP events.
-
Sponsorships & Endorsements: Lucrative deals with FILA, Paddletek, and Carvana.
-
Media & Appearances: As pickleball’s global ambassador, she commands attention in both sports and lifestyle media.
To put this in perspective, Ben Johns, the top-ranked male player, earned over $2.5 million in 2024, while the highest-paid WNBA player, Jackie Young, made $252,450. Clearly, Anna Leigh’s earnings reflect not only her skill but also pickleball’s explosive commercial growth.
Signature Gear And Endorsement Power
Anna Leigh’s dominance is also supported by top-tier gear and brand partnerships. In 2023, she launched her signature paddle line with Paddletek, the Bantam ALW-C Series, featuring two models tailored for power, control, and precision.
Crafted with PT-700 carbon fiber and Paddletek’s signature core, these paddles embody her performance-driven style.
In 2022, she signed a major deal with FILA, playing exclusively in the Volley Burst pickleball shoe — a design she personally helped refine.
Lightweight and responsive, the shoe reflects her dynamic movement and growing influence as both athlete and fashion trendsetter.
Family And Personal Life: The Waters Legacy
Behind Anna Leigh’s meteoric rise stands a strong, supportive family.
Her mother, Leigh Waters, is not only her coach and doubles partner but also her greatest mentor.
A former Division I tennis player at the University of South Carolina, Leigh’s guidance has been instrumental in shaping her daughter’s career.
Together, they’ve become one of pickleball’s most celebrated duos, inspiring players worldwide with their mother-daughter success story.
Her father, Stephen Waters, a former college soccer player, has also played a steady role in Anna Leigh’s development.
The family, based in Delray Beach, Florida, has maintained a close-knit bond throughout her rise.
As for her personal life, Anna Leigh, at just 18, remains unmarried and fully focused on her professional career.
Though fans speculate about a possible relationship with fellow pickleball player Christian Alshon, she continues to prioritize training, competition, and the future of her sport.
FAQ
How Did Anna Leigh Waters Make Her Money?
Anna Leigh Waters earns from professional pickleball tournaments, major sponsorships with brands like FILA and Paddletek, and her signature paddle line.
Who Sponsors Anna Leigh Waters?
She is sponsored by top brands including FILA, Paddletek, and Carvana, all of which recognize her as the face of modern pickleball.
Is Anna Leigh Waters The Highest-Paid Pickleball Player?
Yes, she is currently one of the highest-paid pickleball players, earning more than $3 million annually through prize money and endorsements.
How Old Was Anna Leigh Waters When She Turned Pro?
Anna Leigh Waters became the youngest professional pickleball player at the age of 12.
Is Anna Leigh Waters Married?
No, Anna Leigh Waters is not married. She is currently focused on her professional career in pickleball.
Who Is Anna Leigh Waters’ Mother?
Her mother, Leigh Waters, is also her doubles partner and a former Division I tennis player. Together, they’ve become one of the most successful duos in the sport.
Where Does Anna Leigh Waters Live?
Anna Leigh Waters resides in Delray Beach, Florida, with her family.
What Paddle Does Anna Leigh Waters Use?
Anna Leigh uses her signature paddle, the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C series, which she helped design for optimal control and power.
How Many Championships Has Anna Leigh Waters Won?
As of early 2025, Anna Leigh has secured over 30 Triple Crown titles across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles competitions.