Anna Leigh Waters Wraps Up Manila Visit, Set to Return for IAM Pickleball Showdown in December
World No. 1 pickleball champion Anna Leigh Waters capped off her Philippine debut on Thursday, October 15, with a press conference at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati, wrapping up a three-day visit to the country.
Co-presented by US equipment brand Franklin Sports and health and wellness company IAM Worldwide, the press luncheon brought together media and sports journalists to mark the star’s first trip to Manila.
At 19 years old, Waters holds the World No. 1 ranking in women’s singles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. She arrived in Manila as the headline star of the Franklin Asia Pickleball Showcase, fresh off another Triple Gold sweep in the United States and with over 200 PPA titles to her name.
Waters Talks Franklin Gear
Hosted by sportscaster Boom Gonzalez, the press conference highlighted Waters’ key brand partnerships.
Franklin Sports opened the program, with Waters discussing what it means to represent the equipment brand globally and bring pro-level technology to local players. She also shared insights on her Franklin C45° Aurelius Signature Paddle and the blacked-out prototype paddle she has used in recent tournament wins.
Franklin executives Jared Franklin (Head of International) and John Lynch (Head of Marketing) joined the appearance, along with Waters’ parents, Stephen and Leigh Waters.
IAM Worldwide Welcomes Its Global Sports Ambassador
IAM Worldwide spotlighted Waters in her newest role as the company’s Global Sports Ambassador.
President Allen Marvin Yu Eder, Vice President Aika Lorraine Uy, and General Manager Anna Mañego welcomed Waters, who filmed a commercial campaign for the brand in New York City last June.
During her segment, Waters walked through her daily health routine using IAM Pure Organic Barley and Choco Barley, and shared samples of the IAM Amazing Organic Barley Gummies with members of the media.
Plans for Philippine Pickleball
During the Q&A, Franklin Sports outlined plans to support regional tournaments, youth clinics, and local equipment distribution through major Philippine sports retailers.
IAM Worldwide executives, meanwhile, said partnering with a World No. 1 athlete helps push the company’s health and wellness mission to a wider global audience.
The event closed with a ceremonial photo opportunity and gift exchange. IAM Worldwide executives presented Waters with a welcome bouquet, while Franklin Sports gave the IAM leadership team Franklin ALW Signature Paddles.
Waters Returns December 9
Following her Manila stop, Waters continues the Franklin Asia Pickleball Showcase with legs in Malaysia and Hong Kong.
She also announced that she will be back in Manila on December 9, 2026, for the IAM Worldwide Pickleball Showdown at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, which will feature some of the country’s biggest celebrities and performers.
