Maria Sharapova hung up her racquet for good following her exit from the Australian Open 2020. In a glittering career that lasted for close to two decades, she made a name for herself on and off the court with her accomplishments. She achieved a career Grand Slam, claimed the No. 1 ranking, and won numerous other accolades during her time as a pro.
However, Sharapova didn't limit herself only to tennis even during her playing days. Aside from her numerous brand endorsements, she had her own ventures going on as well. Now that her time as a tennis player is in the rearview mirror, she has transitioned into a full-time businesswoman and entrepreneur, while devoting time to her personal life as well.
Sharapova's first foray into the world of business was by means of her own confectionary brand, Sugarpova, in 2012. She later launched her own line of sunscreen, Supergoop, in 2014. She continued to expand her position as an entrepreneur and appeared on Shark Tank in 2020, and invested in a wearable wrist and ankle weights company.
Later that year Sharapova also became an investor in the wellness brand, Therabody. She has invested in various other ventures since then, including UFC, Tonal, Moonpay, and Clio Snacks, among others. Given her love for fashion, she also joined the Board of Directors of the luxury brand Moncler in 2022.
Sharapova is a regular fixture at high-profile events, such as the Met Gala, fashion weeks, and Hollywood parties. She is also spotted at tennis tournaments, especially the Majors, along with other sporting events. She has also thrived in her personal life, and got engaged to businessman Alexander Gilkes in December 2020, and gave birth to their son in July 2022.
Even though Sharapova occupies herself in various other pursuits, she still maintains a keen interest in tennis. The sport isn't done with her either, and she is set to be honored for her accomplishments soon enough.
Maria Sharapova to be inducted into the Tennis Hall of Fame next year
Maria Sharapova will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame next year. The announcement was made yesterday (October 24), and she has been voted in during her very first year of eligibility. Her induction was a foregone conclusion once she was nominated earlier this year.
Sharapova won 36 career titles as a professional. Five of those titles came at the Majors, one at each of the four Majors, and an additional one at the French Open. She also won the silver medal at the London Olympics, ascended to the top of the rankings, and won the WTA Finals.
Given the Russian's stellar resume, her induction wasn't a surprise after all. She has earned the right to be honored after giving it her all and etching her name in history with her achievements.