Anna Leigh Waters Connects with Fans at Decathlon PH

Decathlon Philippines welcomed sports fans and athletes on October 13, 2026, for an exclusive Asia Showcase featuring pickleball World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters alongside leading American sports brand Franklin Sports.

Celebrating the growing popularity of pickleball in the Philippines, the event offered fans an exclusive opportunity to meet Anna Leigh Waters and her coach and mother, Leigh Waters. Attendees also had their paddles and exclusive photo cards signed while getting a closer look at Franklin’s highly anticipated mystery paddle, which was teased for an upcoming launch.

The showcase brought together notable personalities from the worlds of sports and entertainment, including celebrity Vern Ong, beauty queen Alethea Ambrosio, and professional volleyball player Ced Domingo. Another highlight was the appearance of 11-year-old rising star Gabe Ocampo, a multi-medalist in the Philippine Pickleball League 13U category, who fulfilled a personal dream by playing an exhibition point with Waters.

Jessica de Leon-Ramos, Country Marketing & Communications Leader of Decathlon Philippines, highlighted how Anna Leigh Waters’ presence could inspire and help elevate pickleball within the local sporting community.

“…for Anna Leigh and Coach Leigh to be here today with the community, and from what I can see mostly women, serves as a huge inspiration for players to meet an athlete at the top of their game whether they’re just starting their journey in the sport or are looking to improve. And I feel that it really aligns with our purpose here at Decathlon, movement can begin anywhere, any time, and if they’ve found it through seeing their favorite athlete in person, we can be very proud.”

Fresh from securing her 200th PPA Tour title, the undefeated 19-year-old Anna Leigh Waters also shared her thoughts on pickleball’s inclusive and welcoming nature, encouraging more people to give the sport a try.

“If you are growing up and wondering if you should try pickleball or not, I would say give it a shot because I was one of the haters before I started playing. I just played one time, and the first time I hit the ball, I knew that this was something I would love to continue doing… There’s room for anybody to play pickleball because pickleball is so inclusive.”

The landmark showcase reinforces Decathlon Philippines’ commitment to supporting the growth of emerging sports across the country. By bringing world-class athletes like Anna Leigh Waters and high-performance sporting products closer to local communities, Decathlon continues to promote accessibility, performance, and the joy of sports for every Filipino.