Anna Leigh Waters has accomplished just about everything there is to accomplish in professional pickleball, but the world No. 1 knows her success is about much more than winning titles.

During her recent trip to Manila, Philippines for the Franklin Asia Pickleball Showcase, Waters reflected on the people and values that have helped shape her career, pointing to her family, work ethic, and the relationships she has built through the sport as key ingredients in her remarkable ascent.

“My parents have really helped keep me grounded and taught me life values along the way, as well as values in pickleball,” said Waters. “My mom [Leigh] is a great pickleball coach, but she’s also my life coach. She’s my mom, and I really couldn’t do what I do without her. I wouldn’t have a head on my shoulders if it weren’t for them.”

With Leigh playing a pivotal role in both Anna Leigh's development as a player and her life away from the court, the family connection has remained a constant.

But Waters recognizes that her achievements are the result of a broader support system.

“We’ve also been able to build a really strong team around us,” noted Waters. “I’ve also got people back home in the U.S. who couldn’t join us [here in Manila], but have helped me throughout my journey. I feel like it’s a combination of things that has kept me on top, but family is probably the most important, along with hard work.”

Enjoying the process matters

For aspiring pros, Waters' advice goes beyond simply putting in the hours.

Appreciating the inevitable ups and downs is just as significant as working toward a goal.

“If you want to pursue a professional pickleball career, you should definitely start playing and enjoying the process,” mentioned Waters. “Whether or not you make it professionally, pickleball will always have a place in your life. Committing to getting better at the sport, whether it works out professionally or not, is a good idea.”

It's a perspective that highlights the value of pickleball outside professional success.

Special relationships are among the sport's greatest rewards.

“Pickleball has helped me meet so many of my best friends in life, both on and off the court,” she emphasized. “It’s also taught me so many lessons. I think it’s important to train and have fun, but also remember why you’re doing what you’re doing.”