Waters Duo Strikes Gold: A Holiday Triumph in Daytona Beach
Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters Capture Victory in a Thrilling Women's Doubles Final at the PPA Daytona Beach Open
In a match brimming with emotion, resilience, and pure family chemistry, Leigh Waters and her daughter, world No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters, claimed the gold medal at the PPA Daytona Beach Open. Facing the formidable team of Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black, the mother-daughter duo came from behind to secure a stunning 7-11, 11-8, 11-3, 11-4 victory.
This unexpected pairing, born from a spontaneous decision just weeks ago, turned into a heartwarming and triumphant story. Leigh Waters, stepping back into professional play for the first time since 2022, reminded fans why she was once the best in the game, while Anna Leigh proved why she continues to dominate the sport. Together, they delivered an unforgettable performance on Florida soil, leaving the crowd cheering for more.
Post Match Interview
Dave Fleming: Leigh Waters, you are the champions in Daytona! How in the world did this happen?
Leigh Waters: Honestly, Dave, I’m still pinching myself. This all started because Anna Leigh asked me a couple of weeks ago, “Mom, there’s a tournament in Florida. Let’s go play and have some fun.” And now, somehow, here we are with a gold medal! It’s been such an incredible ride, and I couldn’t be happier.
Dave Fleming: Anna Leigh, what was the difference today against such a talented team?
Anna Leigh Waters: The first game and a half, Tyra and Jorja were playing amazing. We weren’t having fun—we were putting way too much pressure on ourselves. Then my mom looked at me and said, “Anna Leigh, you’re playing with your mom. Just have some fun out there.” That totally changed my mindset. I had a couple of scrappy points, Mom hit some great speed-ups, and we found our rhythm. By the third game, I was even singing Hamilton to myself to stay loose. Once we settled in, everything just clicked.
Dave Fleming: Leigh, it’s been 25 months since your last PPA title. How did you hold up your end of the bargain today?
Leigh Waters: It’s all about knowing my role. When I try to be the star, that’s when things go wrong. But when I focus on being the supporting act—making my shots, setting Anna Leigh up, and waiting for my moment to speed up—that’s when we’re at our best. And really, I just wanted to savor this experience with her. Winning the whole thing? That’s the cherry on top.
Dave Fleming: Anna Leigh, I have to ask. You’ve won with Mom. Does this mean we’ll see this partnership again?
Anna Leigh Waters: (Laughing) Sorry, Catherine! No, I’m playing with Catherine Parenteau all next year. The only reason I asked Mom to play this event was that Catherine didn’t want to. But hey, if this tournament is around Christmas next year and Catherine doesn’t want to play again, maybe I’ll call Mom. I knew she still had it in her, and I’m just so grateful we got to share this moment together.
Dave Fleming: Leigh, what’s next for you? Back to coaching, or will we see you playing more often?
Leigh Waters: (Smiling) Coaching, for sure. This was so special, but my focus is on Anna Leigh’s career. A couple of tournaments a year might be fun, but I’m happy wearing the coaching hat most of the time. And trust me, it’s a lot less nerve-wracking than being out on the court myself!
Dave Fleming: Well, you both were phenomenal today. Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters, congratulations on an incredible victory here in Daytona. You’ve given us all a holiday memory to cherish.
Leigh Waters: Thank you so much, Dave, and thank you to everyone who came out to support us. It’s been an amazing week.
Anna Leigh Waters: Yes, thank you all so much! The crowd was incredible, and we’re so grateful for the support. It means the world to us.
Under the shimmering Florida sun at the PPA Daytona Beach Open, pickleball history was made. Leigh Waters, 45, and her daughter, Anna Leigh Waters, 17, defied expectations by winning the Women’s Doubles title in a gripping final against Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black. With scores of 7-11, 11-8, 11-3, and 11-4, the mother-daughter duo not only claimed victory but also reignited the magic of their partnership after a two-year hiatus from playing together. The triumph showcased not just their skill but also their unique bond, leaving fans inspired and cheering for more.
Leigh and Anna Leigh’s path to the championship was nothing short of remarkable. The duo hadn’t competed together in a professional setting since 2022, making their return at this tournament all the more special. Anna Leigh’s regular partner, Catherine Parenteau, opted out of the event, giving Anna Leigh the perfect opportunity to coax her mother back onto the court. “Mom, there’s a tournament in Florida. Let’s go play and have some fun,” Anna Leigh recounted during the post-match interview. What began as a fun holiday outing turned into a golden performance that captivated the crowd.
In the quarterfinals, the Waters duo faced sisters Mary and Maggie Brascia, delivering a commanding 11-3, 11-7 victory. Leigh, who had been away from professional competition for two years, displayed an impressive range of shots, from forehand speed-ups to overhead slams. Anna Leigh, already the world’s top-ranked player, seamlessly adjusted her aggressive style to complement her mother’s game. “We move pretty seamlessly on the court together,” Anna Leigh said. Their synergy proved unstoppable as they advanced to the semifinals.
Against formidable opponents in the semifinals, the Waters faced even greater challenges but stayed true to their philosophy of playing with joy. “When we’re having fun, that’s when we play our best,” Leigh explained. The pair’s chemistry and resilience were evident as they clinched their spot in the finals, thrilling fans with their dynamic play.
The championship match against Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black tested the Waters’ resolve. The first game slipped away as their opponents came out swinging, taking it 7-11. “We weren’t having fun; we were putting too much pressure on ourselves,” Anna Leigh admitted. But everything changed after a mid-match pep talk. Leigh encouraged her daughter to embrace the moment and enjoy playing together.
From the third game onward, the Waters found their rhythm. Anna Leigh’s powerful drives and Leigh’s strategic setups created a winning combination. By the final game, the duo was unstoppable, dominating 11-3 and 11-4 to secure the gold. Anna Leigh, ever the competitor, even credited a loop of Hamilton songs running through her head for keeping her calm under pressure.
For Leigh, the victory was deeply personal. It marked her first title in 25 months, a drought she had hardly expected to end with a win alongside her daughter. “I just wanted to have a blast out here with her,” Leigh said. “Never expected to win the darn thing, but here we are.” The win was a poignant reminder of the bond they share, both as family and teammates.
Anna Leigh’s post-match reflections were equally heartfelt. “I asked her to play because I knew she had it in her to come out here and win the thing. She’s a baller,” Anna Leigh said, thanking the crowd for their unwavering support throughout the tournament.
The PPA Daytona Beach Open will be remembered not just for its thrilling matches but for the heartwarming story of Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters. Their journey from a casual decision to play together to winning a gold medal is a testament to the power of family, teamwork, and perseverance. As the holiday season continues, fans are left wondering: Could this iconic duo take the court together again?
Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters’ victory at the PPA Daytona Beach Open was more than a win; it was a story of resilience, joy, and family unity. After a two-year hiatus, Leigh returned to professional pickleball to partner with her daughter, the world’s top player. Despite initial nerves and a slow start in the finals, the pair found their stride, blending skill and strategy to overcome tough opponents. Leigh’s role as the steadying force and Anna Leigh’s aggressive play proved to be the perfect combination.
The tournament highlighted not only their on-court prowess but also the unique dynamics of their relationship. From Anna Leigh’s Hamilton-inspired focus to Leigh’s strategic mindset, the duo demonstrated that fun and connection can lead to greatness. Their victory is a shining example of what can happen when talent meets heart, leaving fans inspired and eager for more appearances from this legendary team.
Dave Fleming: The comeback is roaring into the semifinals! Leigh Waters is back playing alongside her daughter, Anna Leigh, for the first time in two years on the PPA Tour. Their quarterfinal victory over Mary and Maggie Brascia, 11-3, 11-7, sends them into the next round. Leigh and Anna Leigh, congratulations!
Leigh, I’ll start with you. You told me earlier to remind everyone this is “just for fun.” So, tell us—are you having fun out there?
Leigh Waters: I’m having a blast! How can you not when you’re playing next to your kid right here? We’re working hard to play our best pickleball, but we’re also making sure to enjoy it and keep things light. That’s when we play our best, and I think we’re doing a good job at that so far.
Dave: Anna Leigh, your mom has shown us quite the variety—forehand speedups, overheads, tricky lobs. What’s your favorite shot of hers? Which one puts a big smile on your face?
Anna Leigh Waters: Oh, definitely the forehand speedup. She hit one crosscourt, then one down the middle, and then one down the line—it’s impossible to predict! I don’t know how she does it, and even though she’s tried to teach me, I just can’t seem to learn it.
What’s really cool is how similarly we play. We were practicing with Will Howells before the tournament, and he said, “This is basically Anna Leigh 2.0.” Then he was like, “Wait, no—it’s just two Leighs on the court. She came first!” [laughs]
I think playing with her is special because we know each other’s tendencies so well. It’s almost seamless. We’ve been doing great, and I asked her after this match if she was tired. She said, “No,” so let’s go—bring on the next one!
Dave: Anna Leigh, a lot of fans would love to know—are you playing any differently with your mom by your side compared to with Katherine?
Anna Leigh Waters: Not really. Katherine and I usually play straight up, and my mom wanted to play the same way for this tournament. The main difference is that I might be taking slightly less court because she plays better when she’s hitting more balls and getting into a rhythm.
I’m trying to let her do her thing without stepping in too much or confusing her, though I’ve done that a couple of times [laughs]. We’re focused on staying aggressive and not getting caught in too many long dink rallies. Just grip it and rip it—that’s the plan!
Dave: Leigh, last question for you. You’ve been balancing roles as coach, mom, and now player. How are you managing to juggle everything, especially in a high-stakes quarterfinal match?
Leigh Waters: It’s been tough, honestly. Over the past few days, I’ve noticed I’ve been more focused on myself than on Anna Leigh, which feels strange. For example, earlier today, Anna Leigh left with my parents, and I stayed back with my husband, Stephen. As we were getting ready to leave, he was like, “Do you have your shoes? Your gear?” And I realized—usually, I’m the one packing everything! We even had to call her a few times asking where things were.
I think playing a couple of tournaments a year is a nice balance for me. But after this, I’ll happily go back to my coaching and “mom” roles full-time.
Dave: Well, you’ve shown us you haven’t missed a step. Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters, congratulations on moving into the semifinals! Best of luck in the next round!
Round Of 16
Michelle McMahon: It’s a true holiday special here at the Daytona Beach Open presented by Roar Organics. We’ve witnessed the highly anticipated mother-daughter reunion of Anna Leigh and Leigh Waters, back in action for the first time since 2022. In their home state, no less, the duo is moving on to the round of 16 after an impressive 11-2, 11-3 win over Kelsey Laurente and Samantha Greenhut. Joining me now to talk about their grand return is Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters.
Michelle: Leigh, starting with you—what inspired your decision to return to the PPA tour for this event? Was it Anna Leigh heckling you to play, or was there something else behind the decision?
Leigh Waters: Honestly, it was just the fact that she asked me. I knew Katherine [Parenteau] wasn’t playing, and I actually thought this was going to be our break. We were planning out what to do during the downtime, and then two weeks ago, Anna Leigh said, “Mom, let’s play.” I was like, “A little notice would’ve been nice!” [laughs] But honestly, it worked out because I didn’t have much time to overthink or get nervous about it.
I just want to say thank you so much to the crowd for coming out and cheering us on. It warms my heart so much to see everyone still remembers me. Truly, thank you!
Michelle: Love it. It really is such a special moment to witness a mom and daughter competing together at the professional level. Anna Leigh, you’ve often credited your mom for the meteoric rise you’ve had in the sport. What makes it so special to play alongside the woman who helped you get here?
Anna Leigh Waters: For sure. I mean, when I was 10 or 11, I was lucky enough to be invited to her groups and to play games with her. Then we started competing together, and she was number one in the world before I was, so I definitely looked up to her a lot.
It feels pretty surreal playing on the court with her now. Honestly, sometimes it feels like I’m dreaming—like, “Is this actually happening? Is this real?” I just tried to soak it all in out there. I’m so glad we were able to get that win and bring back some of those special memories.
Michelle: Leigh, I saw a lot of family support on the sidelines today. Stephen was all smiles, and Anna Leigh’s grandmother was there too. What was their reaction to seeing you back on the court?
Leigh Waters: They were just excited! Like Anna Leigh said, this brings back so many memories—some we’d almost forgotten because now she’s out there playing full-time, and I’m coaching. But playing together again reminds us of how special those years were. We wanted to bring that back for the holiday season, and it’s been such a joy to do it here.
Michelle: Love that. Give it up for the iconic mother-daughter duo, Anna Leigh and Leigh Waters! A well-deserved standing ovation here at Daytona Beach—it’s been an absolute thrill to watch you both. Congratulations on moving on to the round of 16!
Record-Breaking Performances Highlight a Stellar Season
In 2024, Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns solidified their status as premier athletes on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour.
Waters amassed 42 gold and 4 silver medals across 17 tournaments, excelling in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events. Notably, she achieved 9 Triple Crowns, elevating her career total to 30.
Johns secured 32 golds, 4 silvers, and 1 bronze over 20 tournaments, with significant victories in singles, doubles alongside his brother Collin, and mixed doubles, primarily partnering with Waters. He also earned a Triple Crown in North Carolina, marking the 21st of his career.
Both athletes enter the 2025 season with over 130 career titles each, underscoring their dominance in professional pickleball.
On-Court Strategy and Off-Court Friendships: Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns Discuss Their Quarterfinal Victory
Insights into Team Dynamics and Future Aspirations from the 2024 PPA Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships
Following their intense mixed doubles quarterfinal match at the 2024 PPA Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships against Catherine Parenteau and Riley Newman, Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns joined analysts Matt Manasse and Kamryn Blackwood for an exclusive interview. The duo, known for their synergy and strategic gameplay, shared detailed reflections on their match, their unique team communication, and even some light-hearted off-court topics. Here is an in-depth look at their responses and insights from the conversation.
1. [32:16] Kamryn Blackwood: Anna Leigh, I noticed that you and Ben were communicating more frequently between points than usual. Typically, we see you engaging with your mom while Ben stays more reserved. Catherine and Riley, while not a regular pair, present unique challenges. What makes them so difficult, and what do you need to focus on to execute effectively? Anna Leigh Waters: Yeah, for sure. Two years ago, we seemed to face them in nearly every final throughout the entire season, so we definitely understand their game plan and know how to play against them. Both teams have improved, making the matchups even more exciting to watch now than they were then. I was genuinely excited to be on the court today. I think we knew what we needed to do to execute, and I wanted to make sure I stayed on top of it by checking in with Ben during every point. I’d ask him if I needed to make any adjustments, even going over basic things like who to return to before the match. Even though we’ve faced them countless times, it's always good to confirm with the boss and make sure we’re aligned. 2. [33:07] Matt Manasse: Ben, at the end of the match when it was getting really close, it looked like you both had opportunities to take aggressive shots but chose to slow things down. Was this a conscious decision to get back to basics? Ben Johns: Yeah, I mean, I felt that we actually attacked pretty well throughout the match. Realistically, we probably could have taken a few more aggressive shots during those tight moments. Naturally, when matches get close, everyone tightens up, so it’s not unusual to see a bit of hesitation. For us, it was about managing that and staying focused. I’m usually in favor of going for a shot if it feels right, and often that’s the best decision. But in tight situations, there’s a tendency to be more cautious. 3. [33:42] Matt Manasse: AL you have gender doubles matches coming up with just one match between now and then. What’s the process like for transitioning from this mixed match to the next one? Anna Leigh Waters: Honestly, I prefer a quicker turnaround. It keeps me warm and in the rhythm of play, instead of sitting around for hours and needing to rewarm up. Catherine is in the same situation, so I think we’re both ready for our next match. The plan is to play, head out, grab some dinner, and get some rest to prepare for tomorrow. 4. [34:02] Kamryn Blackwood: We’ve got some match highlights to review. It looked like you were controlling the kitchen well, but with Riley’s reach, how did you adjust to maintain that control? Ben Johns: In that first game, I was focusing on moving the ball to the corners with dinks to create openings. Riley’s reach was definitely a factor, so I noticed he was pushing farther over and taking balls off my left foot more than usual. This opened up some strategic angles for us. It was all about aggressive dinking and positioning, using the forehand with a bit of deception to look for an attack. 5. [35:05] Matt Manasse: Ben, you did hit a good forehand Ernie at the end there. Typically, you opt for a backhand. What made you go for the forehand this time? Ben Johns: The backhand Ernie is quicker and more useful when you’re pressed for time, like when the opponents are up at the kitchen. But when they’re playing from mid-court or further back and I have more time, the forehand Ernie gives me a better chance to put power behind it and finish the point decisively. It’s all about recognizing where they are and what works best in the moment. 6. [35:27] Kamryn Blackwood: Ben, we noticed you brushing your paddle after a missed shot. Is that just a habit, or does it actually make a difference? Ben Johns: Yeah, so the balls do leave a bit of plastic residue on the paddle, and I like to clear that off to prevent it from affecting my shot, even if just slightly. Plus, in this match, it was especially humid, so I was wiping off sweat too. Normally, I’m not that sweaty, but today was different! 7. [35:58] Matt Manasse: Hannah mentioned something about your cooking skills back at Maryland and your famous chili. If you win this tournament, have you ever thought about cooking a celebratory meal for Anna Leigh? Ben Johns: Funny you should ask! We actually had a conversation about this at Virginia Beach. We compared our go-to dishes, and hers is baked mac and cheese—which I love. My specialty is spinach dip, with four different cheeses and a touch of goat cheese on top. We joked about it for a while; I even shared my full recipe with her, down to the smallest detail. I promised that next time, I’d whip up some for the team, maybe even with a side of my goat cheese and chicken omelets!
Anna Leigh Waters: The Teenage Pickleball Prodigy Defending Her World Championship Title
At 17, Waters stands undefeated in all divisions at the Professional Pickleball Association's annual championship.
Pickleball, America's fastest-growing sport, is witnessing a remarkable talent in 17-year-old Anna Leigh Waters. As the top-seeded women's player in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, Waters remains undefeated heading into the semifinals of the Professional Pickleball Association's (PPA) Pickleball World Championships in Dallas, Texas.
In a recent interview with NPR's Scott Simon, Waters recounted her unconventional introduction to pickleball. In 2017, following Hurricane Irma, her family evacuated from Florida to her grandparents' home in Pennsylvania. Her grandfather, an avid pickleball player, persuaded Waters and her mother to try the sport. Initially hesitant, viewing it as an "older person sport" due to their tennis backgrounds, they quickly became enamored after their first game.
Their tennis skills translated seamlessly to pickleball, allowing them to adopt an aggressive playing style. This approach contrasted with the slower pace prevalent in the game at the time. Waters believes their dynamic style contributed to their early enjoyment and success.
Waters' mother played a pivotal role in her professional journey. Starting at the lowest tournament level, Waters advanced rapidly, eventually partnering with her mother in professional tournaments. Within a year, they ascended to become the number one women's doubles team. Reflecting on their unique dynamic, Waters shared anecdotes of competing against her mother in singles matches, highlighting the supportive yet competitive nature of their relationship.
Discussing pickleball's surge in popularity, Waters attributes its growth to the COVID-19 pandemic. With limited recreational options, families turned to pickleball, setting up courts in driveways and local parks. Celebrities also embraced the sport, further boosting its visibility. Waters describes pickleball as "easy to learn, but difficult to master," appealing to amateurs and professionals alike.
Summary
Anna Leigh Waters' ascent in the pickleball world is a testament to her adaptability and skill. Transitioning from tennis to pickleball in 2017, she and her mother embraced an aggressive playing style that set them apart. Their partnership in women's doubles led them to the top of the rankings within a year. The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in popularizing pickleball, with many, including Waters, noting its accessibility and appeal across different skill levels. As Waters continues to dominate in all divisions at the Professional Pickleball Association's championship, her story inspires both seasoned athletes and newcomers to the sport.
The World’s Top Pickleball Player Shares Insights on Match Tactics, Preparation, and Life Off the Court
Following her victory over Judit Castillo in the quarterfinals of the 2024 PPA Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships, Anna Leigh Waters, the number one women’s pickleball player in the world, sat down for an in-depth post-match interview. Analysts Matt Manasse and Kamryn Blackwood explored her strategies, the tactical adjustments she made during the game, and the mental and physical preparation that propelled her to the semifinals. Waters opened up about her approach to adapting on the court, her coaching dynamics with her mother, Leigh Waters, and the lighter side of her life as a professional athlete.
In her conversation with Matt Manasse and Kamryn Blackwood, Anna Leigh Waters detailed her game plan and adjustments that led to her victory over Judit Castillo. Recognizing Castillo’s lateral quickness and powerful spin, Waters shared how she focused on adapting her strategies mid-match. Her initial approach in the first game included staying back, which she revised after calling a crucial timeout at 4-2. By moving forward and hitting stronger approach shots, Waters shifted momentum in her favor for the second game.
Waters credited her mother and coach, Leigh Waters, for being the mastermind behind their match strategies, emphasizing the importance of having multiple plans and being able to adapt quickly. The world champion also reflected on the challenges of playing familiar opponents and admitted she would be watching the upcoming semifinal match for both scouting and entertainment purposes.
Outside the court, Waters discussed her popular food-focused Instagram page, “AL Eats,” where she showcases a mix of healthy meals and indulgent treats. She revealed that she maintains a strict diet during tournaments but enjoys splurging on a well-deserved cheat day after competition.
Finally, Waters spoke about her relationship with her mother, recalling how they managed to separate pickleball from home life despite the challenges of being both family and teammates. With humor, she recounted the competitive spirit between them, including a memorable first victory over her mother that led to a silent dinner.
Anna Leigh Waters continues to blend fierce competition with relatable charm, capturing the admiration of fans and maintaining her dominant presence in the sport.
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Anna Leigh Waters Advances to the Semifinals at the 2024 PPA Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships
The World's Number One Player Shares Insights on Strategy, Game Adaptation, and Balancing Life as a Professional Athlete
Introduction: In an exhilarating showdown at the 2024 PPA Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships, Anna Leigh Waters, the world’s top-ranked women’s pickleball player, secured her place in the semifinals with a hard-fought victory over Judit Castillo. Analysts Matt Manasse and Kamryn Blackwood sat down with Waters after the match to discuss her strategies, the challenges faced during the game, and the dynamics of preparing for upcoming matches. Despite the intensity of competition, Waters's candid reflections revealed both her competitive drive and her lighthearted side.
Interview
1. [23:42] Matt Manasse: "That was a really tough first game you had there against Judit. She’s an incredible mover and very strong. It looked like you were trying to go behind her to counter her quick lateral movements. Was that part of your strategy going into the match?"
Anna Leigh Waters: "Yeah, for sure. I mean, I’ve played her many times, and she gets better every time I play her. We faced off at Nationals last year, so we definitely know each other’s games well. It’s all about adapting during a match—sometimes her forehand might be stronger than her backhand, and figuring that out is super important. But yes, I was definitely trying to go behind her as much as possible."
2. [24:02] Kamryn Blackwood: "I noticed in game one you started staying back more. How confident are you in staying back, and how many game plans do you typically have going into a match?"
Anna Leigh Waters: "My mom, who is also my coach, always has multiple game plans prepared. She’s great at strategizing and ensuring I stick to them. In that first game, I was playing really tight and got frustrated, so I called an early timeout at 4-2. That break helped a lot. Judit plays with a lot of spin, unlike my previous matches in this tournament where my opponents hit flat, hard shots. I had to adjust because I was standing too far back, letting the ball drop lower, and trying to hit up from that position. My approach shots were too soft and were giving her easy opportunities. My mom told me, ‘If you’re going to come in, you need to commit and hit a strong approach shot.’ In the second game, I focused on hitting with more power, and that made a difference."
3. [25:35] Matt Manasse: "You’re up against either Caitlyn Christian or Catherine Pono in the semifinals. Is that a match you’ll watch closely, and what do you look for when scouting familiar opponents?"
Anna Leigh Waters: "Yes, I’ll definitely be watching that match. I like both of those girls a lot. It’s always strange when Catherine is on my side of the draw—it’s only happened a couple of times in my whole career. If I play her tomorrow, it’s going to feel like a championship match. When scouting, it’s not so much about finding out if they’ve learned a new shot since we play each other almost every week. But if I haven’t faced someone in a while, I’ll review their matches more thoroughly. For this one, I’ll be watching more for entertainment, but it’ll be insightful."
4. [26:48] Kamryn Blackwood: "Game one was tough, and you mentioned looking into the crowd made it harder. Did playing on the inside court feel different from the outside?"
Anna Leigh Waters: "Definitely. My shots weren’t hitting as hard on the inside court. You can see that toward the end of game one, I started stepping in more, and that momentum carried into game two. My mom pointed out that my footwork was much better in the second game. She even joked that one day, I’d look back at this match, compare my footwork between the two games, and see how much more I was moving into my shots in the second half."
5. [27:20] Matt Manasse: "I saw on your Instagram page, ‘AL Eats,’ that your food choices range from super healthy to indulgently unhealthy. How do you balance that, and have you found any new favorites in Dallas?"
Anna Leigh Waters: "Yeah, my Instagram is pretty eclectic when it comes to food! I have so many story highlights on ‘AL Eats’ that I had to start ‘AL Eats 2.0,’ and I maxed that out too. I’m pretty disciplined during tournaments, sticking to healthier options and avoiding junk food. But I allow myself one day after a tournament to eat whatever I want—it’s well-deserved. Lately, I’ve cut back even more, avoiding cheese and fried foods on game days."
6. [28:34] Kamryn Blackwood: "Do you and your mom, Coach Leigh Waters, ever bring pickleball discussions home, or do you manage to keep that separate?"
Anna Leigh Waters: "We used to play doubles together, so it was trickier then. If I wasn’t playing well, I’d sometimes joke that it was her fault—not mine! But we’ve always been pretty good at separating it. The hardest part was when we played against each other. I’ll never forget the first time I beat her in mixed doubles—I was around 12 years old. She didn’t talk to me for the rest of the day and made me find my own dinner! But now, she acknowledges my progress, and I think that early rivalry helped push me to be better. These days, it’s easier to keep pickleball at the courts and not bring it home."
7. [29:20] Matt Manasse: "Thanks so much for sharing that, Anna Leigh. Congratulations on the win, and good luck in the semifinals!"
Anna Leigh Waters: "Thank you so much! I appreciate it and can’t wait to see how the rest of the tournament unfolds."
