Quick Facts
- Full Name: Anna Leigh Waters
- Born: January 26, 2007 (Age 18)
- Birthplace: Allentown, Pennsylvania, U.S.
- Residence: Delray Beach, Florida
- Height: Approximately 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m)
- Play Style: Right-handed, aggressive, fast-paced
- Turned Pro: 2019, at age 12—the youngest ever
Early Life & Background
Anna Leigh was born in Allentown, PA, and spent early childhood in Clinton, NC. Her family moved to Delray Beach, Florida, in 2015, where she was active in competitive soccer before discovering pickleball in 2017. At ten, she entered her first tournament and won a women’s doubles gold—signaling her rapid rise in the sport.
Professional Career Highlights
- Historic Pro Debut: Turned pro in 2019 at just 12—making her the youngest pro player in pickleball history.
- Record-Breaking Wins: By March 2025, she had amassed 148 gold medals and held the world No. 1 ranking in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles with the Professional Pickleball Association .
- Triple-Crown Dominance: Accumulated over 30 triple crowns across PPA and MLP tours (top-three wins in singles, women’s doubles, mixed doubles) .
- Unique Duo: Regular doubles partner and coach is her mother, Leigh Waters (former NCAA Division I tennis player). They were the first mother–daughter duo to play professionally and feature on national TV via CBS in 2022.
She has also showcased her talent in exhibitions with major figures like Michael Phelps, Jamie Foxx, Sugar Ray Leonard, Scottie Scheffler, and more.
Net Worth & Earnings
Anna Leigh’s multi-million-dollar net worth stems from tournament success, sponsorships, and her growing social media influence:
- Estimated Range: Most reliable sources estimate her net worth between $1.4 million and $2.2 million as of 2024–2025.
- Tournament Income: Earnings include both prize money (possibly around $121K annually) and per-match fees estimated between $1K–$2K.
- Sponsorship Deals: Significant brand partnerships include Fila, Skechers, Carvana, Lock Laces, Paddletek (her signature paddle line)—and reportedly Dynasty Financial Partners .
Playing Style & Influence
Anna Leigh is recognized for her aggressive, speed-driven, and highly precise play, particularly excelling at the net—earning her comparison to tennis icons in terms of dominance . Her rise has sparked a ripple effect, motivating younger players and broadening pickleball’s appeal, especially among youth .
Future Outlook
Still only 18, Anna Leigh has not only become the youngest honoree on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Sports list (2023) but is also widely expected to maintain her dominance for years to come . With pickleball’s popularity on a steep incline, her platform and earnings potential—through media, clinics, and endorsements—are poised to grow.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Age & Height | 18 years, ~5′6″ |
| Pro Debut | 2019 (Age 12) |
| Rankings | World No. 1 in singles, doubles, mixed doubles |
| Medals & Titles | 148+ golds, 30+ triple crowns |
| Net Worth | $1.4 – $2.2 million (sponsorships & winnings) |
| Sponsors | Paddletek, Fila, Skechers, Carvana, Lock Laces |
| Influence | Inspiring youth, shaping pickleball’s growt |
In essence, Anna Leigh Waters is a trailblazing prodigy reshaping the world of pickleball. Dominating tournaments with an all-around game and backed by major brands, she’s at the forefront of a sport experiencing unprecedented growth—both as an elite athlete and cultural icon.
(FAQs) about Anna Leigh Waters:
1. Who is Anna Leigh Waters?
Anna Leigh Waters is an American professional pickleball player known for being one of the youngest and most successful players in the sport’s history.
2. How old is Anna Leigh Waters?
As of 2025, Anna Leigh Waters is 18 years old. She was born on January 26, 2007.
3. How tall is Anna Leigh Waters?
She is approximately 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) tall.
4. When did Anna Leigh Waters start playing pickleball professionally?
Anna Leigh turned professional in 2019 when she was just 12 years old, making her the youngest pro pickleball player ever.
Also Read: Amanda Mccants: Wiki, Bio, Age, Height, Career, and Net Worth
5. What are Anna Leigh Waters’ major achievements?
She has won over 140 gold medals and has held the world No. 1 ranking in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. She has also won more than 30 triple crowns across major pickleball tours.
6. Who is Anna Leigh Waters’ doubles partner?
Her mother, Leigh Waters, who is also her coach and a former NCAA Division I tennis player, is her regular doubles partner.
7. What is Anna Leigh Waters’ playing style?
Anna Leigh is known for her aggressive, fast-paced, and precise style, especially strong at the net.
8. What is Anna Leigh Waters’ net worth?
Her net worth is estimated to be between $1.4 million and $2.2 million, earned through prize winnings, sponsorships, and endorsements.
9. Which brands sponsor Anna Leigh Waters?
She is sponsored by brands like Paddletek (which produces her signature paddle), Fila, Skechers, Carvana, and Lock Laces.
10. Has Anna Leigh Waters appeared on any notable media?
Yes, she and her mother were the first mother-daughter duo to play professionally and appeared on CBS national television in 2022.
11. What impact has Anna Leigh Waters had on pickleball?
She has inspired many young players, expanded the sport’s popularity, and helped raise the profile of professional pickleball worldwide.
12. Where is Anna Leigh Waters from?
She was born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and currently resides in Delray Beach, Florida.
