Nike Enters Pickleball Market with Anna Leigh Waters Deal, Stock Rises
Nike's stock climbed 1.15% to $66.39 as the company announced its inaugural foray into pickleball by signing 18-year-old phenom Anna Leigh Waters. The world's top-ranked pickleball player will represent Nike in apparel and footwear across all professional competitions, marking a strategic expansion into one of America's fastest-growing sports.
The partnership replaces Waters' previous deal with Fila and positions her as a global ambassador for the Swoosh brand. This MOVE comes during a critical turnaround phase for Nike under CEO Elliott Hill, as the sportswear giant capitalizes on pickleball's surging popularity to diversify its athlete portfolio.