A new year in pro pickleball almost always means new paddle contracts and new paddle sponsors for some of the sport’s top talent.

2026 has been no different so far, so let’s take a look at some notable moves and departures.

Anna Leigh Waters

As first reported by The Dink’s Alex Weaver in late December, Waters has been removed from the Paddletek website in a move that signals that the superstar will be moving to a new paddle sponsor in 2026.

Franklin and JOOLA seem to be the frontrunners in public discourse, but Waters has yet to comment publicly about which company she will partner with.

Pro player and content creator Zane Navratil made a video breaking down some dark horses that could also land pickleball’s most recognizable athlete.

Jan. 6 Update: Waters and Paddletek appeared to signal the end of their partnership on social media. Read more here.

Other Updates

• Dekel Bar left JOOLA for 11SIX24.
• Eric Oncins left JOOLA for Engage.
• Gabe Tardio announced the end of his partnership with PIKKL.
• Rachel Rohrabacher announced the end of her partnership with Selkirk.
• Brandon French announced the end of his partnership with JOOLA.
• Thomas Wilson and Vivienne David announced the end of their partnerships with CRBN.
• Chris Haworth announced the end of his partnership with Babolat.
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Expect more paddle news to break in the coming days as players prepare for the Carvana PPA Masters powered by Invited, the first tournament of the year scheduled for Jan. 12-18 in Rancho Mirage, CA.