Pickleball World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters headlines Franklin Sports Asia Showcase in Manila this October

MANILA, Philippines — Global pickleball giant Franklin Sports has officially named the Philippines as the first stop for its highly anticipated Franklin Asia Pickleball Showcase this October 2026. The landmark multi-nation showcase will kick off in Manila before continuing in Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Vietnam. The Manila leg centers on an exclusive appearance by Franklin’s star athlete, Anna Leigh Waters (ALW), the undisputed World No. 1 player and most dominant athlete in professional pickleball. Local fans and the fast-growing Filipino pickleball community will get a rare opportunity to see ALW showcase her high-octane skills that has dominated the global tour. The selection of the Philippines as a primary destination reflects the country’s emergence as a global phenomenon in racket sports. With a staggering 1,213% year-over-year growth rate, the Philippines currently stands as the fastest-growing pickleball market in the world, topping Franklin Sports’ global expansion priorities. "We are honored and excited to bring our Franklin Asia Pickleball Showcase to the Philippines," said Jared Franklin, Head of International at Franklin Sports. "The Philippines is one of the…