From Zero to Pro at 11! Meet the youngest pro athlete in any sport

Anna Leigh Waters may very well be the youngest professional athlete in any sport, turning pro at the astonishing age of 11. Though many consider her pro status to have begun at age 12, she actually competed in a pro tournament at 11, making her accomplishments even more remarkable. This early start is unheard of, given that many professional sports have minimum age requirements of 18. Waters, now 17, has dominated the world of pickleball, achieving the coveted number-one ranking in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles at just 15. She has accumulated 44 singles titles, 40 women's doubles titles, and 44 mixed doubles titles, making her the all-time leader in PPA tour titles. Her 30 Triple Crowns are unmatched in the sport, underscoring her unparalleled skill and dedication. Her journey began when her grandfather introduced her to the sport when she was 11, during a family trip to Pennsylvania during a hurricane that had knocked out the power to her family's home in Florida. Her natural talent, coupled with her family's support and her own unique approach to the game, has allowed her to reach the top of the sport. She claims that she never feels like she is good enough, which drives her to keep working harder. Her parents' support has been crucial, with her mother transitioning from a law career to becoming her full-time coach and manager. She is not only a talented player, but she has a unique mindset that makes her a difficult opponent.

Tennis Stars Join Forces! Jack Sock and Eugenie Bouchard Team Up for Pickleball Tournament

 

 

The world of pickleball continues to attract big names from other sports, most recently tennis professionals Jack Sock and Eugenie Bouchard, who have partnered up for the PPA Tour Masters in California. This collaboration signifies a growing trend of tennis stars transitioning to pickleball, further solidifying the sport's rising status. Jack Sock, known for his impressive tennis career that included reaching the fourth rounds of the French Open and US Open, made his professional pickleball debut in May 2023. His move into the sport highlights the increasing appeal of pickleball to elite athletes from different racquet sports. Eugenie Bouchard, a former Wimbledon runner-up, joined the PPA tour last season, marking another high-profile addition to the pickleball ranks. Her move, like Sock's, demonstrates that pickleball is no longer just a recreational pastime, but a professional sport attracting top talent from other disciplines. This high-profile partnership at the PPA Tour Masters is expected to draw more attention to the tournament and the sport, as fans of tennis look to see how well these players transition to pickleball. This tournament is a significant event on the PPA calendar, offering double points, and will likely see other new partnerships being tested. The move by Sock and Bouchard is another example of how the sport of pickleball is gaining legitimacy as an attractive career choice for elite athletes.

Is this the end of Tennis? Pickleball has 36.5 million players compared to only 23.8 million tennis players in 2022

 

 

Pickleball's dramatic surge in popularity is causing many to question the future of tennis, as it has surpassed tennis in participation with 36.5 million players compared to tennis’ 23.8 million players in 2022. This significant difference highlights a shift in the sporting landscape, with pickleball rapidly gaining ground. The game's accessibility, as it can be played on smaller courts with simpler rules, is a major factor in its appeal. The rules and pace of play may be easier for new players to grasp, as well. While tennis has long been a staple in many communities, pickleball is attracting a new generation of players due to its low-impact and social nature. Many tennis players are now playing pickleball, but very few pickleball players are playing tennis. The ease of transition from tennis to pickleball for former tennis players is not always seamless, as they have to adjust to the differences in ball bounce, service rules and volleying strategy. While the comparison to tennis is inevitable, it may be that the two sports will continue to exist together in the future. The number of people trying out the sport is increasing, so the total number of pickleball players may continue to grow in the future, leading to further speculation on the future of tennis.

$1.5 Million Prize! New Pickleball Tour offers a massive purse, shaking up the pro game

 

 

The introduction of the new international pro tour PWR is setting a new financial standard in the pickleball world, with the Dubai stop of the PWR World Series boasting an astounding $1.5 million prize purse. This prize is five times larger than any prize previously disclosed by any other pro pickleball organization, marking a seismic shift in the financial landscape of the sport. Such substantial financial incentives are expected to disrupt the pro game, drawing top players from around the world and raising the stakes for competition. The high payouts are creating new opportunities for professional pickleball players and also leading some to question their relationships with other leagues. The PWR's large purses, especially the $1.5 million offered in Dubai, are also expected to further fuel the growth of the sport as a legitimate career path for athletes. The PWR is also hosting a tournament in Mumbai, India, with a prize purse of $540,000. The PWR is proving to be a major player in the sport.

Is Pickleball Dangerous? Injuries are on the rise, especially for those over 50

While pickleball is often touted as a low-impact sport, the number of injuries is on the rise, particularly among players over 50. The increase in injuries is due to a number of factors, including players who are new to the sport and who may not be in optimal physical condition. Many players come to pickleball after years of inactivity, not realizing the physical demands of the sport. The sideways movements that are essential for pickleball can strain joints and muscles, making it crucial for players to be physically prepared. Experts recommend players take preventative measures, such as consulting with a physical therapist and incorporating strength and endurance training into their routines. Players who have not been active recently may find that they are unable to move quickly enough to get to a lob or keep their balance, leading to falls and injuries. The high-intensity, fast-paced volleys of experienced pickleball players can also lead to overuse and stress injuries. One doctor noted that players over 50 are injured on average one out of 100 times they play.

 

Pickleball Explodes in India! New leagues and championships draw international players

 

 

Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity in India, with new leagues and championships attracting both local and international talent. The inaugural edition of the BPS Open Pickleball Championship 2025 in Goa drew over 100 players, showcasing the sport’s growing appeal in the region. This event highlights the increasing enthusiasm for pickleball in India, attracting players from across the state. The introduction of the new international pro tour PWR, which includes stops in Mumbai and other parts of the world, is bringing a global perspective to the sport in India, and drawing top players from the United States to the country. Additionally, the World Pickleball League (WPBL) also has a presence in India, further highlighting the growth of the sport. The new leagues and tournaments are helping to grow the sport's popularity and provide opportunities for Indian players to compete on a global stage. Pickleball is rapidly evolving in India, providing an opportunity for growth of the game both recreationally and professionally.