Anna Leigh Waters Tops Women’s Pickleball Rankings: Anna Leigh Waters, the 17-year-old pickleball sensation, remains the undisputed top player in women’s pickleball. Known for her unmatched athleticism and strategic skills, Waters has dominated the sport, holding the No. 1 spot in singles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles, all while staying humble and focused on her goals.
A Champion with a Grounded Mentality
Despite her 31 career Triple Crowns on the PPA Tour, Waters approaches every match with humility and caution. “Any time I play an opponent, even if it’s the first round, I’m nervous,” she admitted. This mindset stems from her belief that complacency can hinder improvement.
“I never think ‘Oh I’ve got this.’” – (Anna Leigh Waters)
“Honestly, I never thought about how I was No. 1 in the world. I always expected that of myself, so it’s cool that it happened, but I always thought I was going to be No. 1. It’s a lot of self-belief, but I also have that drive to become No. 1. To me, it’s the perfect combination to why I’ve been able to sustain it for so long.” – (Anna Leigh Waters)
Waters credits her success to a strong combination of self-belief and motivation. “I always thought I was going to be No. 1,” she said, emphasizing the importance of hard work and drive in sustaining her reign.
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Support System and Staying Grounded
Waters’ family plays a significant role in keeping her grounded. Her parents travel with her to tournaments, providing emotional support and helping her decompress after intense matches.
“Tournaments are a lot, but traveling with my parents has been so helpful. Being able to play my matches, then getting to reset, talk with my family after, and mentally disconnect from pickleball is so good. We’ll go to dinner or we’ll go sightseeing around the city. It’s just good to be reminded that pickleball isn’t the only important thing in my life.” – (Anna Leigh Waters)
She balances her life by enjoying simple moments, like sightseeing and dinners with her family, which remind her that “pickleball isn’t the only important thing in my life.”
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Looking Ahead to the Future
With her 18th birthday approaching, Waters is excited about the future of pickleball. She acknowledges the growing competition in the sport, as more talented players enter the field.
“I should really enjoy every moment that I’m No. 1 in all three divisions because I don’t know how long it’s going to last. Pickleball is getting tougher, and there are a lot better players who are getting into the sport. I’m personally excited for when it’s not just college tennis players who are coming into the sport. I’m excited for when the kids who have played their whole life come into the sport. The kid who started playing at seven years old and then they go pro at 20.” – (Anna Leigh Waters)
She eagerly anticipates the day when young players who have grown up with pickleball become professionals.
“That’s when we’re going to see some insane pickleball. Hopefully I’ll get to play against some of those people because I am younger.” – (Anna Leigh Waters)
Significance and Legacy
As Waters continues to dominate the sport, her humility and commitment to excellence set an example for athletes everywhere.
Her focus on personal growth, family support, and passion for the game highlight why she is widely regarded as the greatest of all time in professional women’s pickleball.
News in Brief: Anna Leigh Waters Tops Women’s Pickleball Rankings
Anna Leigh Waters, 17, remains pickleball’s top player, holding No. 1 rankings in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. Known for her humility, family support, and drive, Waters is excited about the sport’s growing competition and her future. Her grounded approach and passion continue to inspire the pickleball community.
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