Pickleball's undisputed queen, Anna Leigh Waters, is set to ignite the Asian pickleball scene, marking a monumental moment for the sport's global expansion.
The PPA Tour Asia has dropped a bombshell announcement: Anna Leigh Waters, the reigning sensation of pickleball, will be making her highly anticipated international debut at the MB Hanoi Cup in Vietnam. This isn't just a tournament; it's a statement, cementing the event as the most star-studded opener for the PPA Tour Asia season and a huge win for pickleball on the world stage.
Key Points:
- Anna Leigh Waters makes her international debut at the MB Hanoi Cup in Vietnam.
- She will compete in women's doubles with Anna Bright and mixed doubles with Ben Johns.
- Post-tournament, Waters hosts clinics and a showcase in Ho Chi Minh City with Franklin Sports.
- The MB Hanoi Cup, from April 1-5, 2026, offers 1,000 ranking points in a historic Asian event.
A New Frontier for the "Queen of Pickleball"
This isn't merely a trip; it's a strategic move for Waters to broaden pickleball's reach. She expressed immense excitement, stating her international debut in Vietnam is a career highlight. Having witnessed the sport's explosive growth in the US, she's now eager to champion its global future.
Partnering with Franklin Sports, Waters will extend her influence beyond competition. Scheduled clinics and exhibition matches in Ho Chi Minh City on April 6-7 underscore her commitment to sharing her passion and expertise, fostering new generations of players across the continent.
Dominance Personified: Waters' Unmatched Record
For those unfamiliar, Anna Leigh Waters isn't just a player; she's a phenomenon. She holds the coveted No. 1 ranking across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles on the Carvana PPA Tour. Her trophy cabinet boasts over 190 gold medals, a testament to her relentless pursuit of victory.
Her "triple-crown queen" status isn't just a title; it's a fact. With clean sweeps at an astonishing 41 PPA Tour stops and counting, Waters consistently delivers dominant performances. Opponents in Hanoi will face a player at the absolute peak of her powers.
Dream Teams for Hanoi Showdown
The MB Hanoi Cup will showcase Waters alongside elite partners. Fans can anticipate electrifying women's doubles action as she pairs up with the formidable Anna Bright. In mixed doubles, she will join forces with the legendary Ben Johns, forming a duo that promises to be nearly unstoppable.
The Stage is Set: MB Hanoi Cup Details
The inaugural MB Hanoi Cup is slated for April 1-5, 2026, at the state-of-the-art My Dinh Indoor Athletics Arena. This landmark tournament is not just about bragging rights; it's a crucial stop on the professional circuit.
Champions will walk away with 1,000 ranking points, significantly impacting their standing within the global Professional Pickleball Association's system. The stakes are high, the talent is world-class, and the world is watching Vietnam usher in a new era for pickleball.
