MANILA, Philippines — Wrapping up an action-packed three-day visit, World No. 1 pickleball champion Anna Leigh Waters officially capped off her Philippine debut on Thursday with a grand press conference at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati, while announcing her much-anticipated return to Manila on December 9, 2026.
Co-presented by US equipment leader Franklin Sports and premier health and wellness brand IAM Worldwide, the exclusive press luncheon brought together media and sports journalists to celebrate the renowned athlete’s milestone first visit to the country.
At just 19 years old, Waters stands as the undisputed World No. 1 in Women’s Singles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. Fresh off claiming over 200 PPA titles and completing another Triple Gold sweep in the United States, she arrived in Manila as the headline star of the Franklin Asia Pickleball Showcase.
Hosted by sportscaster Boom Gonzalez, the press conference highlighted Waters’ key brand engagements.
During her segment with Franklin Sports, Waters discussed representing the pioneer equipment brand globally and sharing pro-level technology with local players.
She showcased her Franklin C45° Aurelius Signature Paddle alongside the blacked-out "Franklin Whip" prototype paddle used in her recent tournament victories.
Executives Jared Franklin (Head of International) and John Lynch (Head of Marketing), alongside her parents Stephen and Leigh Waters, joined the media appearance.
Concurrently, IAM Worldwide welcomed Waters in her newest role as Global Sports Ambassador. Executive leadership—including President Allen Marvin Yu Eder, Vice President Aika Lorraine Uy, and General Manager Anna Mañego—welcomed the champion, who previously filmed a commercial campaign for the brand in New York City.
Waters demonstrated her daily health regimen using IAM Pure Organic Barley and Choco Barley, and shared IAM Amazing Organic Barley Gummies with the press.
During the Q&A session, Franklin Sports outlined upcoming plans to support regional tournaments, youth clinics, and local equipment distribution through major Philippine sports retailers.
Meanwhile, IAM Worldwide executives emphasized that partnering with a World No. 1 athlete actively advances their mission of promoting health and wellness to a wider global audience.
The event concluded with a ceremonial photo opportunity and gift exchange, featuring welcome bouquets and the presentation of Franklin ALW Signature Paddles.
Following her Manila appearance, Waters continues the Franklin Asia Pickleball Showcase with upcoming stops in Malaysia and Hong Kong.
However, local fans will not have to wait long to see her back in action. Waters officially announced her return to Manila on December 9, 2026, where she will headline the IAM Worldwide Pickleball Showdown at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, an exciting event set to feature some of the country’s biggest celebrities and performers. TMT
