Get ready to witness history in the making: Nike has just signed its first-ever pickleball athlete, and it’s none other than the unstoppable Anna Leigh Waters. But here’s where it gets controversial—while pickleball has exploded in popularity, Nike has been surprisingly slow to join the party. So, why now? And what does this mean for the sport’s future? Let’s dive in.
In a groundbreaking move, Nike has inked a deal with the No. 1-ranked pickleball sensation, Anna Leigh Waters, making her the first pickleball player to join the brand’s prestigious roster. While the financial details remain under wraps, Waters will sport Nike apparel and footwear across all her tournaments and events. At just 18, she’ll also serve as a global ambassador for the sport, a role that feels tailor-made for her meteoric rise. This partnership comes on the heels of her previous deal with Fila, which was set to expire in 2025.
Pickleball’s surge in popularity has been nothing short of phenomenal, with over 36 million players worldwide. Yet, Nike’s entry into the sport feels almost overdue. And this is the part most people miss—Nike’s move comes at a pivotal moment for the company, which is navigating a turnaround plan under new CEO Elliott Hill after facing sluggish sales and a stock dip. Could Waters be the game-changer Nike needs to reclaim its dominance in the sports world?
For Waters, 2023 has been a year for the record books. She currently holds the top spot in women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, boasting an astonishing 181 gold medals and 39 career triple crowns. Her journey began in 2019 when, at just 12 years old, she became the youngest professional pickleball player ever. Talk about starting strong!
In a heartfelt statement, Waters shared, ‘Growing up, I watched my idols wear the Swoosh in their biggest moments, so joining the Nike family is a dream realized. Nike is the gold standard in performance, and I can’t wait to step onto the court representing a brand that believes in the same relentless pursuit of greatness that drives me every day.’
But Nike isn’t the only brand betting on Waters. She recently switched paddle companies to Franklin Sports and has partnerships with major players like Delta Air Lines, DoorDash, and Ulta Beauty. According to an anonymous source, she earns a cool $2 million annually from the United Pickleball Association. Here’s the bold question—is Anna Leigh Waters the face of pickleball’s future, or is she just the beginning of a much larger sports revolution?
Waters will debut her Nike partnership this week at the Carvana Masters in Rancho Mirage, California. As she steps onto the court, she’ll carry not just her paddle but the weight of expectations from both the pickleball community and Nike itself. Will this partnership elevate pickleball to new heights, or is it just a strategic move by Nike to stay relevant? Let us know what you think in the comments—we’re all ears!
