Pickleball star Anna Leigh Waters arrives in Hanoi for the PPA Asia 1000 in a stunning Lexus LM 500h. Discover the luxury ride here!
Anna Leigh Waters, one of the world’s top-ranked pickleball athletes according to the PPA rankings, has officially touched down in Hanoi. Arriving on the evening of March 31, the pickleball sensation is in town to compete in the highly anticipated PPA Asia 1000. This event marks a significant milestone in her career, as it is her first-ever professional tournament appearance outside of the United States.
A First-Class Arrival: The Lexus LM 500h
While her athletic prowess is the main draw, it was her choice of transport that caught the public’s eye. The “Queen of Pickleball” was spotted traveling in the Lexus LM 500h, currently one of the most expensive and prestigious luxury MPVs available in the Vietnamese market.
According to images shared by the vehicle provider, Waters was chauffeured in the 2025 6-seater edition. Designed for those who demand the absolute pinnacle of comfort, the LM 500h boasts a massive wheelbase of 3,000 mm, positioning it firmly in the ultra-luxury segment.
Designed for the Elite Passenger
The Lexus LM is engineered with a “passenger-first” philosophy, focusing heavily on the rear cabin experience. The interior is a masterclass in luxury, featuring:
- Advanced Controls: The second row is equipped with a ceiling-mounted control screen, allowing passengers to manage the cabin environment via a wireless remote.
- Ultimate Privacy: A sophisticated glass partition separates the rear cabin from the driver. This partition can be opened, closed, or frosted at the touch of a button, ensuring total privacy for high-profile guests.
- Bespoke Customization: Depending on the owner’s preference, the vehicle offers extensive personalization options, including premium leather grades and custom contrast stitching.
Performance and Power
Beyond the opulent interior, the Lexus LM 500h delivers seamless performance. It is powered by a 2.4L parallel hybrid engine paired with a high-performance eAxle motor. Together, they produce a combined maximum output of approximately 275 horsepower, reaching a top speed of 185 km/h.
This power is efficiently delivered to all four wheels through a sophisticated 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth, quiet, and stable ride through the bustling streets of Hanoi.
Pricing in Vietnam
In Vietnam, the 6-seater version of the Lexus LM 500h starts at 7.53 billion VND (approximately $300,000 USD), with prices increasing further based on personalized luxury packages.
As Anna Leigh Waters prepares to take the court at the My Dinh National Stadium, she does so with the kind of luxury and comfort befitting a world champion.