MANILA, Philippines – World No. 1 pickleball player Anna Leigh Waters makes a quick return to the Philippines.
Following a well-received debut tour in Manila last October, Waters will next grace the legendary Araneta Coliseum on December 9 with a series of world-class exhibitions and other activities, while organizers have also promised musical performances with celebrity guests.
“The moment Anna Leigh Waters stepped onto Philippine soil last October, the clamor from fans and players was electric,” organizers shared in an official statement on Thursday, November 5. “We quickly realized that an ordinary venue simply wouldn’t suffice.
“Moving this showcase to the Smart Araneta Coliseum was an easy decision driven entirely by the overwhelming public demand. We want to ensure that as many fans as possible have the opportunity to witness the world’s greatest pickleball player in action, live.”
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General ticket sales for the event presented by wellness brand IAM Worldwide begin on Monday, November 9, following a limited exclusive sale period this Thursday, November 5.
“Pickleball is more than just a game to me. It’s speed, focus, and endurance, all in one. That’s why I am more than willing to support a community that values performance and wellness together,” the 19-year-old American sensation said in a video release.
“Let’s celebrate sports, health, and the power of staying strong together,” added the teenage prodigy, who has been the all-time women’s pickleball pro title record holder since October 2022 at age 15.
Waters has also been the undisputed pickleball pro title record holder since November 2025, after eclipsing doubles partner and men’s world No. 1 Ben Johns, and has since won an unprecedented 200th career title at the 2026 PPA Veolia Chicago Cup last October.
Passionate Filipino fans arrived in droves to meet the global face of pickleball in her last foray on Manila soil, as Waters joined packed crowds in various Taguig and Makati sports apparel stores last October 13 to 15.
Already part of TIME100’s Most Influential People in Sports, the young Waters also gamely shared her life success story to fans and media, and encouraged Filipino players to fully enjoy and embrace the process of the rising sport. – Rappler.com