Pickleball Powerhouses Clash at Daytona Beach Open: Leigh Waters makes her highly anticipated return to professional pickleball this weekend at the Daytona Beach Open, marking the final Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) event of 2024. Playing alongside her daughter and world #1 Anna Leigh Waters, the Florida duo is set to compete in women’s doubles as the #2 seed. This hometown event promises an exciting conclusion to the season, with its results impacting the 2025 standings.
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Star-Studded Field with Surprising Pairings
The Daytona Beach Open brings an intriguing mix of new partnerships to the forefront, as several top players opt to skip the event. Leading the women’s doubles draw are #1 seeds Anna Bright and Jackie Kawamoto. Both have shown exceptional skill throughout the year and are expected to be formidable contenders despite being a newly formed team.
Leigh Waters’ return alongside Anna Leigh Waters has stolen the spotlight. Leigh’s absence from the court for over a year due to injury makes their return particularly meaningful for fans and the Florida pickleball community.
“Having Leigh back on the court is something everyone’s been waiting for. The chemistry between her and Anna Leigh is unmatched, and they’re sure to make a deep run in this event.” – (PPA analyst Sarah Miller)
The #3 seed features Hurricane Tyra Black and Jorja Johnson, another fresh partnership. Black is known for her dominance on the left side, while Johnson’s recent performances have solidified her as a strong right-side player. At #4, Allyce Jones and Tina Pisnik are paired together, though their shared preference for the right side might present challenges.
Similarly, the #5 seeds Meghan Dizon and Alix Truong face the same issue. Rounding out the top six seeds are Kate Fahey and Lea Jansen, both of whom are recognized for their right-side prowess but have the versatility to adjust. Jansen’s power game could see her take on more left-side responsibilities in this pairing.
Key Matchups and Unpredictability
With so many unfamiliar partnerships, the tournament is expected to be highly competitive and unpredictable.
“It’s anyone’s game this weekend. The mix of new teams creates opportunities for upsets and thrilling matches. Fans should be ready for some surprises.” – (PPA director Mike Sanders)
Anna Bright and Jackie Kawamoto’s top seed reflects their strong performances in 2024. Bright’s quick hands and Kawamoto’s defensive skills make them a balanced and formidable duo. However, their chemistry as a team remains to be tested against experienced partnerships like the Waters duo.
Tyra Black and Jorja Johnson, seeded third, are another team to watch. Johnson has been praised for her adaptability and strategic play, while Black’s aggressiveness on the left side adds firepower to their lineup. Their complementary styles could make them serious contenders.
The Return of Leigh Waters
Leigh Waters’ comeback is one of the most significant storylines of the event. After more than a year away from professional play, her return alongside Anna Leigh has electrified fans. The mother-daughter team has previously dominated women’s doubles, and this tournament offers a chance to reestablish their presence on the tour.
“It’s great to be back. Playing with Anna Leigh, especially here in Florida, makes it even more special. We’re ready to give it our all.” – (Leigh Waters)
Anna Leigh, who has continued to dominate the women’s singles and doubles rankings, added,
“I’m so excited to have my mom back on the court. We’ve been training hard and can’t wait to compete together again.” – (Anna Leigh Waters)
Impact on 2025 Standings
Although the Daytona Beach Open is the final event of 2024, its points will count toward the 2025 standings. This unique timing adds significance to the tournament, as players look to gain an early advantage heading into the new year. For Leigh Waters, this event could set the stage for a strong 2025 season after her long break.
For teams like Bright/Kawamoto and Black/Johnson, a solid performance here could build momentum for their partnerships moving forward. Meanwhile, unseeded teams have a chance to make their mark in a field filled with new combinations.
News in Brief: Pickleball Powerhouses Clash at Daytona Beach Open
Leigh Waters returns to professional pickleball at the Daytona Beach Open this weekend after over a year-long injury break. Playing alongside world #1 Anna Leigh Waters, the mother-daughter duo is seeded #2 in women’s doubles.
Top seeds Anna Bright and Jackie Kawamoto are expected to face stiff competition from this dynamic team and other intriguing partnerships. As the final PPA event of 2024, its results will influence the 2025 standings, adding high stakes to this thrilling season finale in Florida.
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