PHILIPPINES — World No. 1 pickleball player Anna Leigh Waters is set to visit the Philippines in October for the Franklin Sports Asia Pickleball Showcase, giving Filipino fans a rare opportunity to witness the sport's biggest star in action. The Manila leg runs from October 13 to 15, 2026.
Fastest-Growing Pickleball Market in the World
The Philippines has emerged as the fastest-growing pickleball market globally, posting a staggering 1,213 percent year-over-year growth rate. This distinction places the country at the top of Franklin Sports' global expansion priorities. The selection of Manila as Waters' primary destination reflects the nation's emergence as a phenomenon in racket sports.
Jared Franklin, Head of International at Franklin Sports, expressed enthusiasm about bringing the showcase to the Philippines. He noted that the country's pickleball community is one of the most vibrant in the world, and the company is proud to bring the No. 1 player to Manila. The visit underscores Franklin's commitment to supporting the sport's growth on a global scale.
A Four-Country Southeast Asian Tour
Waters will kick off her landmark multi-nation tour in the Philippines before heading to Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Vietnam. The tour, organized by Franklin Sports, will see the world champion showcasing her skills before pickleball-crazed fans across the region.
Filipino fans will get an up-close look at Franklin's latest innovations during the event. The showcase follows Waters' viral September 2 Instagram post in front of her Times Square billboard in New York City, where she posed holding an all-black paddle with a bold white question mark graphic. The mystery paddle serves as a teaser for Franklin's upcoming launch and was the paddle Waters used to win the Major League Pickleball finals.
Franklin Products and Innovations on Display
Attendees will also see the legendary Franklin X-40 ball in action. The X-40 is universally regarded as the global gold standard for pickleball, holding over 75 percent market share in North America. It serves as the official ball of several major tournaments, including the Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour, the Franklin US Open Pickleball Championships, and the APP Tour.
Franklin plans to introduce the X-44, a faster-playing ball endorsed by Waters, later this year. The company's full range of paddles, balls, bags, footwear, and accessories is available in the Philippines through retailers such as Decathlon, Toby's Sports, Chris Sports, and Juego PH.
A Rare Opportunity for Filipino Fans
The showcase gives the Philippines' growing pickleball community a chance to see the sport's greatest player demonstrate her skills in person. Waters' visit is expected to further boost the sport's soaring profile in the country. Full details regarding local showcase venues, schedule of play, and fan interaction opportunities will be released in the coming weeks.
