2023 Kansas City Open Anna Leigh Waters Women's Singles Finalist - Interview

 

Anna Leigh Waters: Rising Star of Pickleball Awaits Mother's Return In the world of professional pickleball, one name has been making waves like never before - Anna Leigh Waters. At just 16 years old, she has risen to become the world's number one pro pickleball player. Recently, she secured her spot as a finalist in the pro women's singles at the PPA Kansas City Open, a testament to her remarkable talent and determination. Championship Sunday looms, and Anna Leigh Waters is ready to shine. Anna Leigh's journey to the top has been nothing short of inspiring. Her meteoric rise in the sport has earned her a legion of fans, both young and old, captivated by her incredible skill and unwavering spirit. The Kansas City Open has been no exception, with pickleball enthusiasts eagerly watching her every move. However, Anna Leigh's journey has not been without its challenges. Her mother, Leigh Waters, was her longtime partner on the court, and together, they formed the formidable number one women's doubles team in the world. Tragically, Leigh suffered a torn ACL during the 2022 Margaritaville USA Pickleball National Championships while playing mixed doubles with Tyson McGuffin, bringing her 2023 season to an abrupt halt. For Anna Leigh, the absence of her mother has been a bittersweet experience. On one hand, it presented her with an opportunity to prove herself as a formidable singles and doubles player, a challenge she has met with grace and tenacity. On the other hand, it meant that the dynamic duo, known for their exceptional chemistry on the court, was temporarily separated. In a recent interview that has captured the hearts of pickleball enthusiasts around the globe, Anna Leigh opened up about her journey and her deep desire to see her mother back on the court. She expressed her hope that Leigh would make a triumphant return, even if it's just for one tournament. Anna Leigh believes her mother deserves to exit the sport on her own terms, not due to injury. "I just don't want her to go out on not her own terms," Anna Leigh said. "I want her to be able to come back to play a tournament. If we win it, she's here to stay. If we get second, she might still be here to stay. If we get third, she might still be here to stay." The mother-daughter bond in pickleball is a special one, and Anna Leigh's sentimentality towards playing alongside her mother is evident. She highlighted the unique joy she derives from competing with Leigh, emphasizing that it's a different experience compared to partnering with other players. "Playing with Anna (Bright) and Catherine (Parenteau) is fantastic, but playing with your mom is just something really special," Anna Leigh explained. The pickleball community eagerly awaits Leigh Waters' return to the court. Her presence has been sorely missed, not only for her undeniable talent but also for the heartwarming mother-daughter dynamic that has added a unique layer of emotion to the sport. As Anna Leigh Waters gears up for Championship Sunday at the PPA Kansas City Open, she carries with her not only the weight of her aspirations but also the hopes of seeing her mother by her side once more. The world watches with bated breath as this rising star continues to etch her name in the annals of pickleball history, all the while cherishing the dream of a heartfelt reunion on the court.