Meet the 16-year-old pickleball phenom who defies the stereotypes

 

Pickleball Phenom Anna Leigh Waters: A Teen Taking Over the Court In a sports world often dominated by well-established athletes and seasoned professionals, one name is breaking the mold and making waves in a rather unexpected arena: pickleball. This vibrant and fast-growing sport has found an unlikely prodigy in the form of 16-year-old Anna Leigh Waters, who is single-handedly challenging the notion that pickleball is just a pastime for retirees. With an impressive track record and unwavering dedication, Waters is making a name for herself both on and off the court. Waters' journey into the world of pickleball began in 2017 when her family had to evacuate their home in Florida and found refuge in Pennsylvania. Little did she know, this change in scenery would lead to a lifelong passion. Introduced to the sport by her grandfather, Waters initially resisted the idea, dismissing it as an activity suited for an older demographic. However, her grandfather's persistence paid off, and after just a few rounds on the court, Waters was hooked. "I want to play all the time," she exclaimed with youthful exuberance, capturing the essence of her newfound passion. Waters' mother, a professional pickleball player herself, was quick to recognize her daughter's potential. It didn't take long for Waters to challenge her mother's skills, a move that caught both players off guard. "I had to face her in a singles tournament, and she beat me," Waters shared, still carrying a trace of the competitive frustration from that encounter. But rather than sparking rivalry, this mother-daughter duel fueled a shared journey. Her mother became her doubles partner, and together, they achieved remarkable success, rising through the ranks to become the number one doubles team in the world. And by the time she turned 16, Waters had cemented her position as the number one singles player. "It is mind-blowing. I'm happy every time I step on the court," Waters said with genuine enthusiasm, her determination evident in every word. Her passion has led her to travel for 32 weeks a year, balancing her athletic pursuits with her education as she hits the road. Beyond her personal achievements, Waters is using her pickleball prominence to give back to the sport she loves. She dedicates time to teaching the younger generation at kids' clinics, imparting her skills and passing on the thrill of the game to others. In San Francisco's Oracle Park, Waters is something of a celebrity, her name resonating with fans young and old. However, despite her accomplishments, Waters reveals an unexpected quirk – she feels more at ease around older individuals. "When I talk to kids my age, I get nervous. I don't know how to talk to kids my age," she admitted. Yet, her ability to connect with those of varying ages only adds to her charm. Described as an old soul in a young body, Waters is off to an impressive start in what many would consider a retirement hobby. And while her journey is still unfolding, her dreams are grand. Waters envisions a future where pickleball becomes an Olympic sport, and she can proudly represent the United States on the international stage. While pickleball has yet to achieve Olympic status, its rapid growth leaves the door open for possibilities. As Anna Leigh Waters continues to push boundaries and shatter stereotypes, she stands as a beacon of inspiration for young athletes everywhere. With unwavering determination and a unique ability to bridge generational gaps, Waters' story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the love of the game.