Lea Jansen

Lea Jansen is a prominent figure in professional pickleball, celebrated for her fierce competitiveness, powerful shots, and strategic gameplay. Born on November 15, 1993, she has established herself as one of the top-ranked women’s singles players globally, with a dynamic presence in doubles and mixed doubles as well. Lea’s consistent performances and fiery on-court persona have made her a favorite among fans and peers alike, earning her multiple tournament titles and a respected place on the PPA Tour.

Early Life

Lea Jansen grew up in Valparaiso, Indiana, in a sports-loving family. From a young age, she displayed aptitude for racquet sports, particularly tennis. Starting competitive tennis at age 8, she dominated every age group ranking in the Pacific Northwest during her youth. She later played at Washington State University and was named conference player of the year and a first-team NAIA All-American.

Academically, Lea earned a degree in accounting and later pursued an MBA in healthcare management, balancing education and athletics. She credits these experiences for her discipline, strategic thinking, and resilience, which translate into her pickleball career.

Family Life

Lea maintains close ties with her family in Spokane, Washington, and balances her professional itinerary with personal interests in health, wellness, and outdoor activities. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 23, she has managed her condition alongside her athletic pursuits, becoming an advocate for diabetes awareness. Lea enjoys skiing, hiking, and spending time with her dogs, cultivating a positive lifestyle off the court that complements her professional demands.

Career

Lea began her pickleball journey in 2019, encouraged by childhood friend and pickleball pro Tyson McGuffin. Transitioning from tennis to pickleball full-time by 2021, she rapidly climbed the ranks of the PPA Tour, gaining recognition for her aggressive baseline style, precise net play, and mental toughness.

She has competed in over 95 professional tournaments by 2025, with over 600 career matches. Her career highlights include gold medals in women’s singles and doubles at prestigious events like the US Open Pickleball Championships and APP Tour Chicago Open. She also secured silver medals in mixed doubles at major tournaments, reflecting her versatility.

Lea credits much of her growth to her coach Jim Costello and his Neuro-Fit Systems program, which enhances cognitive and physical synchronization essential for peak performance. Lea’s signature paddle is the JOOLA Anna Bright Scorpeus Pro IV 14mm, supporting her aggressive yet balanced play.

She ranks #6 in women’s singles, #12 in women’s doubles, and #11 in mixed doubles as of mid-2025, reflecting her status as one of the sport’s elite competitors.

Net Worth

Although her exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, Lea Jansen’s earnings come from tournament wins, sponsorships—most notably with JOOLA Pickleball—and brand endorsements. Given her consistent podium finishes and growing popularity, her estimated net worth is between $500,000 and $1 million, with potential to increase as pickleball’s audience and commercial viability expand.

Player Profile