Nike signs its first pickleball deal with phenom Anna Leigh Waters

Company - Nike has signed a deal with Anna Leigh Waters, the No. 1-ranked pickleball player, making her the first pickleball athlete to join Nike's roster [1] - The terms of the deal remain undisclosed, but Waters will represent Nike for apparel and footwear at all her events and serve as a global ambassador for pickleball [1] - Nike is currently undergoing a turnaround plan under new CEO Elliott Hill due to previous lagging sales and a stock slump [2] Industry - Pickleball has experienced explosive growth in recent years, indicating a rising trend in the sport [2] - Anna Leigh Waters has had a record-breaking year, holding the No. 1 rank in women's singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, with a total of 181 gold medals and 39 career triple crowns [3] - Waters began her professional pickleball career in 2019 at the age of 12, becoming the youngest-ever pro pickleball player [3]