Anna Leigh Waters, the world’s top-ranked female pickleball player, officially launched her YouTube channel on November 6, 2025. The 18-year-old sensation shared her debut video, marking a significant milestone as she brings her five-year reign in pickleball to the digital platform. With the promise of an exclusive glimpse behind the scenes, her content is poised to engage fans not just with her athletic prowess but also her personal life.
In the introductory clip titled “Welcome to my YouTube Channel!”, Waters emphasizes her desire to connect with her audience. “On the court, I’m all about speed, strategy, and competitive spirit,” she states, before adding, “But off the court, that’s where the real fun begins.” This blend of competitive insights and personal storytelling will define her content strategy.
With an impressive record of 165 gold medals and 37 triple crowns, Waters has not only dominated the singles, doubles, and mixed doubles categories, but she has also become a trailblazer in the sport, earning over $2 million last year as pickleball’s highest-paid female player. She is committed to using her platform to share a variety of content, which includes cooking segments, behind-the-scenes footage, and fun challenges, all featuring her new emotional support puppy, Archie, who will accompany her to all events.
Waters’ entry into YouTube comes at a time when professional pickleball is gaining significant traction, generating $60 million in annual revenue, signaling the sport’s transformation into a mainstream entertainment phenomenon. Other top players, such as Zane Navratil and Catherine Parenteau, have also established their YouTube presences, showcasing the growing trend among athletes in this sport.
The content strategy Waters has outlined is refreshingly diverse, aiming for more than just athletic highlights. Her plans include weekly training tips, bi-weekly cooking segments featuring celebrity guests, regular behind-the-scenes looks during tournament seasons, and daily moments with her puppy, Archie. This approach aims to provide a more intimate view of her life, appealing to fans who value authenticity.
Waters’ launch represents a significant moment for women in sports, showcasing the potential for female athletes to build personal brands and monetize their fame beyond traditional avenues. As she continues to develop her content, she is setting a new benchmark for what it means to be an athlete in the modern age. With her ambitious plans and engaging personality, Waters may soon see her channel reach 100,000 subscribers within just six months, further solidifying her status as not only a sports icon but also a digital influencer.
This dynamic move not only enriches the world of pickleball but also highlights the importance of authenticity in sports, paving the way for future generations of athletes who may follow in her footsteps and embrace the digital realm as an extension of their athletic careers.