Anna Leigh Waters Sparks Pickleball Buzz with Surprise Rome Visit
Rome, Italy
What's the Score?
Rome, Italy – Pickleball World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters and her mother, Leigh Waters, created a huge buzz in the Italian pickleball community following an unexpected visit to the Roma Pickleball indoor facility for a practice session during their vacation. The visit, initially mistaken by the owner as a prank, proved genuine and generated an overwhelming reaction from local fans who see Waters as an "idol" and role model.
Hit it Deeper!
The owner of Roma Pickleball, Marco Maurizi, was understandably "stunned" when he received a WhatsApp message on Sunday from someone named Leigh Waters inquiring about booking court time. Maurizi admitted he was sceptical, wondering if it was a case of omonimi (people sharing the same name) or a trick played by a work colleague. It was only when Leigh Waters laughed and confirmed she was indeed Anna Leigh's mother that Maurizi realised the magnitude of the news, calling it an "incredible honor" for the facility and the city. The pair chose to use Maurizi's indoor facility due to rainy conditions in Rome.
The high-profile presence of the reigning PPA Tour champion and winningest player in PPA history resonated deeply within Italy's small but passionate pickleball community. Maurizi reported that the club's Instagram account was "inundated with DMs" from local supporters, many of whom noted that Waters is a "symbol" and someone they want to follow. This interest underscores the fact that while pickleball is still considered a "brand new sport" in Italy with "very few players," the enthusiasm is high.
Maurizi expressed hope that the visit would create a necessary "spark" and help the pickleball movement grow substantially across Italy. He emphasised that creating a solid local base is necessary for growth. Both Anna Leigh and Leigh Waters were gracious about the experience, thanking Roma Pickleball for their hospitality. Anna Leigh praised the visible growth of pickleball in Italy, calling it "absolutely amazing," and voiced her hope to return soon, not only for the "amazing food" but to meet and play with the local community. Maurizi concluded that the visit served as a reminder of the sport's power to inspire people and promote excellence.
The World Pickleball Verdict
Anna Leigh Waters' casual decision to practice at a local facility during a European vacation provided invaluable, high-level validation for the nascent Italian pickleball scene. In a country where the sport is just beginning, having the world's most dominant player acknowledge and engage with the community acts as a powerful catalyst for growth, instantly elevating the sport's profile.
Her visit proves that even small, passionate communities benefit disproportionately from exposure to global icons, significantly aiding their efforts to build a sustainable local foundation.