Nike signs pickleball deal with Anna Leigh Waters
Pickleball phenomenon Anna Leigh Waters has signed a clothing and shoe deal with Nike.
Courtesy: Nike/Anna Leigh Waters
Nike Signed a deal with No. 1 pickleball player Anna Leigh Waters, making her the first pickleball athlete to join Nike’s roster.
Although terms of the agreement were not disclosed, Waters will represent Nike in both apparel and footwear at all events and professional tournaments. The 18-year-old will also serve as Nike’s global pickleball ambassador. It previously had an apparel and footwear deal with Fila that expires in 2025.
Pickleball has seen explosive growth in recent years, but so far Nike has been slow to catch on to the trend. The company is currently in the midst of a turnaround plan under new CEO Elliott Hill following a sales lag and stock decline.
The new partnership caps off a record-breaking year for Waters. She is currently ranked No. 1 in women’s singles, doubles and mixed doubles with 181 gold medals and 39 career triple trophies (winner of singles, doubles and mixed doubles in one event). Waters’ pickleball career began in 2019, when he became the youngest professional pickleball player ever at age 12.
NAPLES, FLORIDA – MAY 03: Anna Leigh Waters hits a forehand over Megan Fudge and Jillian Braverman during the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championship Pro Women’s Doubles gold medal match at East Naples Community Park on May 3, 2025 in Naples, Florida. (Photo: Bruce Yeung/Getty Images)
Bruce Yeung | Getty Images Sports | Getty Images
““Growing up, I saw my idols wear the Swoosh in their biggest moments, so joining the Nike family is a dream come true,” said Waters. “Nike is the gold standard in performance, and I can’t wait to step on the court representing a brand that believes in the same relentless pursuit of greatness that drives me every day.”
Last week, Waters announced he was switching rowing companies and joining the company. Franklin Sports. Waters also has deals with major brands including: Delta Airlines, Door Indicator And Ulta Beauty. He currently earns $2 million a year from the United Pickleball Association, according to a person familiar with Waters’ earnings who asked to remain anonymous to discuss nonpublic matters.
According to a representative for Waters, the new Nike partnership will debut this week at the Carvana Masters race in Rancho Mirage, California.
