Pickleball remains one of the fastest-growing sports in America, with the game increasing participation 311% between 2022 and 2024, per reports from Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). In 2024, there were an estimated 19.8 million pickleball players in the United States, and it’s grown even larger since.
With the inevitable rise of the sport, Nike is looking to get in on the craze, signing their first professional pickleball player.
No. 1-ranked pickleballer Anna Leigh Waters, 18, became the first athlete in her sport to join Nike’s roster. The phenom previously had a deal with Fila, but that deal expired in 2025. For the foreseeable future, Waters will wear Nike apparel and footwear at her professional appearances.
What are the terms of the deal?
The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the deal should add to an already lucrative pickleball career for Waters. Waters, who became a professional pickleball player at the age of 12, earns roughly $2 million annually from the United Pickleball Association, per reports.
When will Anna Leigh Waters debut her new Nike attire?
Waters will debut her Nike apparel at the Carvana Masters event in Rancho Mirage, California, taking place this week with play finishing on Jan. 18.
Why did Nike sign a pickleball athlete?
Despite the insane growth of the sport in recent years, Nike had always refrained from involving itself in pickleball. However, under new CEO Elliott Hill, the company’s tune has seemingly changed. Nike’s new plan, amid poor sales and plummeting stocks, will see more involvement in pickleball and other up-and-coming sports.
Anna Leigh Waters’ other brand deals
Waters has been in the midst of several big brand deals as of late. Just last week, Waters agreed to use new paddles, joining the Franklin Sports family for gear with their company. Waters also has deals in place with other major companies such as Delta Airlines, Ulta Beauty, and DoorDash.
In a statement following the reveal of her deal with Nike, Waters said, ‘Growing up, I watched my idols wear the Swoosh in their biggest moments, so joining the Nike family is a dream realized.’ She continued, ‘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.’
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