PicklePod: Anna Leigh Waters and Leigh Waters Tell All

Our latest guest to the Picklepod needs no introduction, but we’ll do one anyway.

She’s the world's No. 1 female pro pickleball player, with almost 100 PPA Tour Gold Medals, and she’s only 17 years old. Our guest is Anna Leigh Waters. She is joined by her mother, Leigh Waters, a decorated professional pickleball player in her own right and one of the best coaches in the sport.

Zane Navratil and Thomas Shields sit down with the pair to discover some insane fan stories and learn about the pressure of being (and coaching) the No. 1 pickleball player in the world.

Among the many topics discussed ...

How ALW Handles the Pressure of Being No. 1 

Most people at age 17 are worried about grades, friends, and why their parents still listen to old people's music. Anna Leigh Waters has to deal with those things and the pressure of being the No. 1 player in the world. How does she do it?

Also, how does Leigh Waters deal with being her mother and coach?

Creepers Be Creeping

ALW isn’t quite up to Beatles status when it comes to thousands of fans waiting for her at airports, but she does run into a random stranger who recognizes her. Unfortunately, some of these people can be a bit creepy. 

ALW’s Daily Schedule

The life of a pro pickleball player is a grind. Find out how Anna spends her day and how much pickleball she plays outside tournaments. She also talks about other sports she has played and whether a soccer career is in her future.

The US Pickleball Open and a Special Announcement

The U.S. Pickleball Open used to be one of the premiere pickleball tournaments. Now, with new ownership, they hope to bring its glory back. ALW and Leigh make a special announcement on the podcast.

Her Match with Tyra

By this time, we’ve all seen or heard about the weird thing that happened with ALW and Hurrican Tyra Black at last year’s PPA Takeya Showcase. But do you know the story behind it? The guys show that no topic is untouchable.

What’s With the RV?

What 17-year-old wouldn’t want to travel from pickleball tournament to pickleball tournament in their own RV? ALW and Leigh speak on the genesis of the RV and the multiple talents of their driver, Mr. Scott.

Her Two-Handed Backhand

The guys get a little technical with this one. Learn how Anna Leigh Waters hits her infamous two-handed backhand shot and how you might be able to pull it off, too.

Rapid Fire Questions

The podcast ends with a series of rapid-fire questions. Who is ALW’s arch-nemesis on the court? What’s her best and worst subject in school? The guys get down to brass taxes.