NPR: Meet the 17-year-old defending her title as pickleball World Champion

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.