Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Nike Signs No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters as Its First Pickleball Athlete

The signing signals Nike’s entry into pickleball through a selective sponsorship strategy focused on standout talent.

Overview

  • The multi-year agreement covers head-to-toe apparel and footwear and designates Waters as a global pickleball ambassador for Nike.
  • Her Nike debut is slated for this week at the PPA Carvana Masters in Rancho Mirage, according to her representative.
  • Financial terms were not disclosed, and CNBC reported via an unnamed source that Waters earns about $2 million annually from the UPA.
  • Waters, 18, is ranked No. 1 in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles with 181 gold medals and 39 career triple crowns.
  • The move follows Waters’ recent switch to Franklin Sports for paddles and aligns with Nike’s recalibration under CEO Elliott Hill.