Hayden Patriquin Speaks Out on Heated Clash with Anna Leigh Waters
What's the Score?
Hayden Patriquin has publicly addressed his controversial on-court exchange with Anna Leigh Waters during a Major League Pickleball (MLP) match on the Bad Calls – Pickleball Podcast. The discussion sheds light on the heated moments and reactions that occurred during the match.
Hit it deeper!
The incident took place during a tense MLP match where Hayden Patriquin and his partner Kate Fahey were competing against Anna Leigh Waters and Will. According to Patriquin, the tension escalated when Waters laughed at him after the game. When he confronted her about the laughter, Waters reportedly responded, "That’s what you deserve," referring to earlier remarks made by Patriquin. Patriquin admitted to using strong language in his reply, acknowledging, "I shouldn’t have said what I said," and stating it was a mistake. He clarified that his words were directed at the intensity of the situation, not at Waters personally, and insisted his reaction was not that of a sore loser but rather a moment where emotions ran high. Patriquin noted that despite moments of on-court tension, he and Waters have a history of being competitive rivals who maintain a friendly relationship off the court, typically checking in and reaffirming mutual respect after matches. While acknowledging the online backlash he faced, Patriquin also pointed out that some defended him, viewing heated exchanges as a normal part of competitive sports. He believes "Chirping is good for pickleball" for intensity but stresses the importance of accountability when things go too far. He believes the incident, even if controversial, will help grow the sport, agreeing with MLP's stance that the young players will learn from it and that "Bad publicity, whatever it is, it’s all good" for visibility. Patriquin suggested that MLP might benefit from implementing clearer guidelines for player interaction during matches and potentially having mediators when tensions rise.
The World Pickleball Verdict
Patriquin's account of the clash with Anna Leigh Waters highlights the emotional and competitive intensity that can be a feature of professional pickleball, particularly in high-stakes league play. His willingness to discuss the incident publicly and admit fault contributes to an ongoing conversation within the sport about player conduct, sportsmanship, and the role of verbal exchanges during matches. The focus on this event by players and MLP suggests it's being viewed as a learning opportunity for the league and its athletes as the sport continues to evolve.