In a stunning turn of events that has left fans and the pickleball community in shock, Anna Leigh Waters, one of the sport’s brightest stars, made an unexpected announcement that has everyone talking. The 17-year-old phenom, who has dominated the pickleball scene with her incredible talent and competitive spirit, revealed during a press conference that she will be stepping away from the sport temporarily to focus on new opportunities that no one saw coming.
Waters, who has been a fan favorite and a dominant force on the court, broke the news in front of a packed room of reporters, where she explained her reasons for taking a break from professional pickleball. What left fans truly speechless wasn’t just her decision to step away but the direction she plans to go during her time off: Waters announced her intention to pursue a professional career in acting and music, industries she has long been passionate about but had kept private until now.
“I’ve always loved performing arts—acting, singing, and being in front of the camera. Pickleball has been my life for so long, but I’ve realized there’s more I want to explore,” Waters said during the emotional press conference. “This doesn’t mean I’m leaving pickleball forever, but right now, I need to take this time to follow another dream.”
This announcement has left fans in disbelief, as Waters was expected to continue her dominance in the sport for years to come. Known for her quick reflexes, court intelligence, and strong mental game, she has become a trailblazer in pickleball, inspiring countless young players. At just 17, she has already claimed multiple titles, solidifying her legacy as one of the best to ever play the game.
Her decision to pivot towards acting and music is especially surprising given her meteoric rise in pickleball, but Waters explained that it is something she has been contemplating for some time. “Pickleball will always be part of who I am, but I’ve been feeling the pull to express myself in other ways, and I don’t want to wait any longer,” she said.
Fans reacted with a mix of surprise and support, with many taking to social media to express their disbelief while also wishing her well in this new chapter. “We’ll miss seeing you on the court, but we can’t wait to see what you do next!” one fan wrote, echoing the sentiments of many others who have followed Waters’ impressive career.
Industry experts, meanwhile, have weighed in, noting that while Waters’ departure is a huge loss for professional pickleball, it also highlights her versatility and ambition. Some are even predicting that her fame in pickleball could help her gain traction in the entertainment industry, as she already has a large following and a recognizable face.
Despite the shockwaves her announcement has caused, Waters made it clear that her time away from pickleball is not necessarily permanent. “I’m not closing the door on pickleball,” she reassured her fans. “I just need to take this step right now and see where it leads. Who knows, you might see me back on the court sooner than you think.”
As the news of her announcement continues to spread, the pickleball world is left pondering what this means for the future of the sport and for Waters’ career. One thing is certain—whether in pickleball or the entertainment world, Anna Leigh Waters is destined to make an impact wherever she goes.
