Pickleball Power Duo: Anna Leigh Waters and Andre Agassi Team Up in Florida
In an unprecedented crossover between tennis royalty and pickleball’s brightest star, World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters is partnering with none other than eight-time Grand Slam champion Andre Agassi in a special mixed doubles showcase this week in Florida.
This marks a historic moment in professional pickleball — and one that promises to shine a massive spotlight on the rapidly growing sport.
A Star Duo: Youth Meets Legacy
At just 18 years old, Anna Leigh Waters has already cemented her place as the most dominant force in pickleball. But this week, she’s stepping onto the court with a legend of a different kind. Andre Agassi, now 55, is making his professional pickleball debut, fresh off celebrating his birthday on Tuesday.
Though their partnership may seem unlikely at first glance, it’s one grounded in shared passion and a deep commitment to the sport.
The Invitation That Sparked a Moment
Waters revealed that she was admittedly nervous when she reached out to Agassi for the first time.
“Usually with people with Andre’s level of fame, I don’t get super nervous… but I was kind of like, ‘Oh my gosh, I’m talking to Andre Agassi on the phone. This is crazy,’” she shared in a recent CNBC interview.
Her pitch was simple yet powerful: join forces to grow pickleball on a global scale. To her delight, Agassi didn’t hesitate to say yes.
A Shared Passion for Pickleball
Agassi, who has developed a genuine love for pickleball in recent years, was quick to jump on board — but not without a practice session first.
“Let me come practice with you first so you know what you’re getting into,” Agassi told Waters.
Despite not having the polished skills of her usual partner Ben Johns, Agassi brings something different: decades of competitive grit, sharp instincts, and a willingness to learn.
“Pickleball has been such a big part of my family’s life,” Agassi shared. “It’s a community-driven activity that I got into in a very authentic way.”
Complementary Styles on Court
After watching Agassi’s game footage online, Waters felt confident in their chemistry. And during their training session, it became clear: their styles match up well.
“Just from a style of play, not from an ability level, we both tend to err on the aggressive side,” said Agassi. “I just wanted Anna Leigh to know what I was and wasn’t capable of.”
Waters’ ability to adapt and react in real time impressed Agassi, who praised her on-court instincts and leadership.
Facing the Nerves, Embracing the Challenge
Even a decorated athlete like Agassi isn’t immune to nerves, especially when stepping into a new arena.
“I’m sickly nervous,” he admitted. “But I know that feeling. In tennis, I knew how to direct it. In pickleball, it’s so nuanced… I’m just going to do my best and not stop Anna Leigh from doing what she does best.”
For Agassi, the focus isn’t on winning — it’s on contributing to the sport’s momentum.
“To a large degree, I probably have no business being out there,” he said. “But the thing that overrides the potential of humiliating myself is the idea that we can really grow the sport.”
A Match Made for Pickleball History
Whether they dominate the court or simply spark joy in fans watching, one thing is certain: Waters and Agassi are playing for something much bigger than a trophy.
Together, they’re expanding pickleball’s reach, proving it’s a game for all ages, and showing the world what passion and teamwork can do.
Stay tuned for highlights from this exciting collaboration — and witness pickleball history in the making.
