Anna Leigh Waters, the top-ranked pickleball player, has officially teamed up with Nike. This makes her the first athlete from the sport to join the iconic brand. While the exact details of the deal remain under wraps, Waters will wear Nike’s apparel and footwear during tournaments around the world. At just 18 years old, she will also be a global ambassador for the brand.
Though pickleball has recently surged in popularity, Nike has been slow to embrace the trend. The company’s new CEO, Elliott Hill, is leading a turnaround as sales have struggled. Experts believe this partnership could signal a new direction for the brand in the rapidly growing pickleball market.
Waters is having a standout year. She holds the top spot in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, boasting an impressive collection of 181 gold medals and 39 career triple crowns. Waters began her journey in pickleball at just 12 years old, making her the youngest professional player in the sport’s history.
In her own words, Waters expressed her excitement: “Growing up, I watched my idols wear the Swoosh in their biggest moments. Joining the Nike family is a dream realized.” This sentiment resonates with many young athletes who aspire to reach their full potential in sports.
Recently, she made headlines for switching paddle companies to Franklin Sports and securing additional sponsorships with brands like Delta Air Lines and Ulta Beauty. Reports suggest she earns around $2 million annually from her role with the United Pickleball Association.
As Waters gears up for her competition at the Carvana Masters in Rancho Mirage, California, her new partnership with Nike marks a significant step not just in her career, but for the sport of pickleball as a whole.
For those interested in the growing trends around pickleball, a recent survey found that participation in the sport has increased by over 20% in the past year alone, making it one of the fastest-growing sports in America.
Anna Leigh Waters is not just a player; she’s a trailblazer shaping the future of pickleball. For more on her journey and the sport’s rise, you can read more from trusted sources like CNBC or check updates from the United Pickleball Association.
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