Maria Sharapova shares adorable picture of son who turns 9 months old

Maria Sharapova shared an endearing picture of her son, Theodore, who turned nine months old on Saturday, April 1. Sharapova and her partner Alexander Gilkes joyfully welcomed their first child into the world on July 1, 2022.

In December 2020, the former World No.1 announced her engagement to British businessman, Gilkes. Then, on her 35th birthday in April, the couple shared the exciting news that they were expecting their first child.

Sharapova took to her social media to share a heartwarming picture of her son playing with a stuffed toy with the caption that he turned nine months old.

"9 months. My heart," Sharapova captioned her Instagram story.

Maria Sharapova's Instagram story

In July 2022, the couple took to Instagram to share the news of their newborn son's arrival. They posted a heartwarming photo of themselves gazing adoringly at their precious bundle of joy.

Sharapova, a five-time Grand Slam champion, captioned the image, which captured her and Gilkes embracing their son, with the baby's birth date inscribed in Roman numerals.

"Theodore VII•I•MMXXII 🍼🐣 The most beautiful, challenging, and rewarding gift our little family could ask for," Sharapova captioned her Instagram post.

Maria Sharapova reveals the advice she would like to pass on to her son Theodore

Maria Sharapova at the BNP Paribas Open

Maria Sharapova began her professional tennis career in 2001 at the age of 14. She went on to dominate the sport for almost two decades before retiring in February 2020.

Last month, speaking to NewBeauty, the Russian tennis star was asked about the advice she would give her son when he grows up.

Sharapova emphasized the importance of authenticity, as she believes that finding one's voice is crucial. Additionally, she stressed the significance of maintaining a curious mindset and being open to new information.

"I do think that being yourself is ultimately the best advice," Maria Sharapova said. "I’ve never tried to pretend to be someone that I’m not. I think authenticity, particularly in today’s society where we are bombarded by so many influences, is the key. All these different influences can very quickly make you want to try to be something you’re not."

"It’s important to know who you are and to find out what it is that you love about yourself, and what it is that you want to say, as opposed to what others would want you to say. And continue to be curious. I think that’s so important in life. Always give yourself room to grow," she added.