Anna Leigh Waters Dominates in Atlanta, Secures 34th Career PPA Triple Crown
Highlights from the 2025 Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships
The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) returned to action after a month’s break, hosting one of the season’s most anticipated events at the Peachtree Corners Life Time facility. This tournament not only showcased thrilling matches but also marked a significant milestone for Anna Leigh Waters, who clinched her 34th career PPA triple crown.
Anna Leigh Waters Dominates at 2025 Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships, Secures 34th Career Triple Crown
Atlanta, GA – The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) made a triumphant return to the court this past weekend with the highly anticipated 2025 Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships, held at the state-of-the-art Peachtree Corners Life Time facility. Among the standout performances, Anna Leigh Waters shone brightest, clinching her 34th career PPA triple crown, further solidifying her status as a force in the sport.
Waters, the current PPA No. 1, showcased her exceptional skills and resilience throughout the tournament. After a month-long break since the last PPA event in North Carolina, the energy at the Atlanta Championships was palpable, reminiscent of the excitement from two years ago when this writer first covered the event.
A New Chapter for Waters
In a significant shift leading up to the tournament, Waters ended her long-standing partnership with Catherine Parenteau, opting instead to team up with her rival, Anna Bright. The duo quickly proved their chemistry, dominating the competition and remaining undefeated as a pair. Their journey culminated in a thrilling final against Parenteau and her new partner, Rachel Rohrabacher, where Waters and Bright emerged victorious, further igniting the rivalry.
Men’s Singles: A Competitive Landscape
The men’s singles draw featured an impressive 86 competitors, highlighting the growing depth of talent in the sport. Notably, qualifier Alexander Crum shocked the field by defeating top seed Federico Staksrud in the opening round. However, it was Ben Johns, ranked No. 4, who ultimately claimed the gold medal, defeating Connor Garnett in the final. This victory marked Johns’ 42nd career singles gold and his second in three appearances this year.
Women’s Singles: Waters’ Unstoppable Streak
In the women’s singles, Waters continued her dominance, defeating Kate Fahey in a highly anticipated final. After a brief setback in the second game, Waters found her rhythm, sweeping the final game 11-1 to secure her astounding 51st career PPA singles gold.
Mixed Doubles: A Display of Talent
The mixed doubles competition showcased the depth of talent on the tour, with Waters and Johns once again proving their mettle. The top-seeded pair cruised to victory, claiming their 49th mixed medal together, further establishing their legacy in the sport.
Looking Ahead
As the PPA tour moves forward, the excitement continues with upcoming events, including the NYC Open and the Orange County Cup. With Waters’ remarkable achievements and the growing popularity of pickleball, the future of the sport looks brighter than ever.
For full tournament results and details, visit the PPA Tour website.
