Maria Sharapova Olympics

Sharapova's career took off when she won the Wimbledon singles title at 17. She then became world number one at 18. "I don't think anyone expected me to win Wimbledon at 17," she said. "And no one expected me to be number one by 18. Just the fact you are number one puts a smile on your face."

Injuries and Setbacks

Throughout her career, Sharapova faced several injuries. She pulled out of the 2011 China Open due to a left ankle injury. In 2008, she underwent shoulder surgery, which kept her off the court for about a year. In 2007, she withdrew from the Fed Cup semifinals because of a shoulder injury.

Awards and Honours

Sharapova was chosen by the Russian Olympic Committee to be the flag bearer at the London Olympics opening ceremony on 27 July 2012. This made her the first female Russian athlete to receive this honour. After winning the French Open in 2012, she became the sixth female tennis player in the Open era to achieve a career Grand Slam.

She holds the national sports title of Honoured Master of Sport and was named a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme in February 2007.

Personal Life and Interests

Sharapova is engaged to Slovenian basketball player Sasha Vujacic and resides in Brandon, FL, USA. She speaks English, French, and Russian. Her hobbies include reading, fashion, singing, dancing, and watching films.

Influences and Support System

Sharapova credits her parents as the most influential people in her career. "My parents are my core. I could never have achieved what I have without their support," she said.

Philanthropy

In August 2006, Sharapova started the Maria Sharapova Foundation to help at-risk children worldwide achieve their dreams. During the 2005 Australian Open, she donated a Porsche Cayenne car's value to those affected by the Russian school hostage crisis in Beslan.

She also participated in a tennis exhibition in Florida with fellow players to raise money for the Florida Hurricane Relief Fund.

Unique Traits

Sharapova is naturally left-handed but switched to playing right-handed at age 10. She can sometimes be seen hitting left-handed forehands during matches. She has also been noted for her grunts and high-pitched shrieks during games, earning nicknames like 'Maria Shriek-apova' and 'Belle of the Decibel'.

"I try not to make noise," she said. "But it's just something I've been doing all my life. It's something that I try to control but my mouth doesn't control the way I play."

Maria Sharapova's journey in tennis is marked by early success, significant challenges, and numerous accolades. Her dedication to philanthropy and unique playing style continue to make her a notable figure in sports.