MANILA, Philippines — World No. 1 pickleball star Anna Leigh Waters made a visit to the Philippines for the first time and expressed her admiration for the Filipino’s love for the sport.
The 19-year-old athlete spent three days in the Philippines, where she interacted with fans, played exhibition matches, and partnered with a wellness brand—also noticing how the Filipinos have a love and passion for the sport.
“They’re very passionate about the game. I think the pickleball players in the Philippines enjoy playing it every day; it has become part of their lifestyle. And maybe, it has also become part of the culture here in the Philippines,” Waters said during the press conference hosted by Franklin Sports and IAM Worldwide at the Dusit Thani Hotel at noon on Thursday.
“It is really cool to see, even though I know in America the sport has been growing, but pickleball does not have that element it has here in the Philippines… Well, not yet,” she added.
Waters has enjoyed her stay in the Philippines, emphasizing the warmth she received on her tour.
The American pickleball player played in an exhibition match in Mall of Asia, engaged with fans in Bonifacio Global City, tried cultural elements, and also joined a new wellness journey with IAM Worldwide.
“Thank you to all the Filipinos I met. You guys have been so loving, and the support that you showed has been something that I’ll never forget,” she added.
Waters will return to the Philippines on Dec. 9, playing at the Araneta Coliseum.
Recently, IAM Worldwide has launched its newest commercial starring global pickleball sensation and undisputed World No. 1 Waters.
The campaign spotlights the multi-titled champion promoting the IAM Amazing Organic Barley Gummies, reinforcing the connection between elite athletic performance and accessible daily nutrition.
The launch arrives as pickleball continues its meteoric rise as the world's fastest-growing sport. Sweeping across continents from North America to Asia, the paddle sport has transcended casual recreational play to become a global cultural phenomenon.
The Philippines has rapidly emerged as a key epicenter for pickleball in Southeast Asia. Across Metro Manila and key regions, the sport’s accessible, fast-paced, and highly social nature has ignited a nationwide obsession, with dedicated complexes opening nationwide and thousands of local "picklers" joining the movement.
In the playful yet high-energy commercial, Waters is seen engaging in a competitive pickleball rally against a cute, animated IAM Gummy Bear, highlighting the dynamic blend of high-level athletic performance and recreational fun.
But beyond the playful action, the 60 seconder also reflects the mental fortitude and physical drive required for Waters to remain at the very top of her sport.
The campaign’s messaging centers on conquering the unexpected and turning constant effort into physical strength, emphasizing how optimal energy, immunity, and stamina allow athletes to dominate every game while having fun along the way.
