Nike Enters Pickleball Market with Anna Leigh Waters Partnership

Major Brand Makes Strategic Move

The athletic apparel giant Nike has made its debut in the pickleball industry by partnering with 18-year-old champion Anna Leigh Waters, marking the brand's initial venture into this rapidly expanding sport.

Source : The Dink Pickleball

Partnership Details

Waters, who holds the top ranking across three competitive categories (women's singles, doubles, and mixed doubles) will wear Nike gear and footwear during tournaments while serving as the company's worldwide pickleball representative. Financial details of the multiyear agreement remain confidential.

Career Milestone for Young Athlete

This partnership represents a significant milestone for the young athlete, who had previously been associated with Fila until that arrangement concluded in 2025. Waters expressed her excitement about the collaboration, noting that wearing Nike's iconic swoosh fulfills a childhood aspiration.

Strategic Timing for Nike

The timing of Nike's entry into pickleball comes as the company works to revitalize its performance under CEO Elliott Hill following recent sales challenges and stock market difficulties. Despite pickleball's remarkable surge in popularity over recent years, Nike had previously remained on the sidelines of this growing market.

Impressive Competitive Record

Waters brings an impressive resume to the partnership. Her accomplishments include an unprecedented 181 gold medal victories and 39 triple crown achievements (sweeping all three categories at a single competition). Her professional journey began remarkably early at just 12 years old in 2019, she became the youngest player to compete at the professional level.

Broader Sponsorship Portfolio

Beyond Nike, Waters maintains sponsorship relationships with several prominent corporations, including Delta Air Lines, DoorDash, and Ulta Beauty. She also recently transitioned to Franklin Sports for her paddle equipment. According to sources familiar with her compensation, Waters receives approximately $2 million yearly from the United Pickleball Association.

Tournament Debut

Waters debuted her Nike partnership at the Carvana Masters tournament in Rancho Mirage, California, this week, showcasing the brand's apparel and footwear on the court.