"A great tennis career is something that a 15-year-old normally doesn't have. I hope my example helps other teens believe they can accomplish things they never thought possible."


"I don't follow other players or the tournaments they play. I have my own schedule and do my own thing. I never really think, 'Oh, I want to be or play like so-and-so.' I just like being myself."



"I learned there's a big difference between juniors and the pros."


"I'm just like every other girl who likes to shop, likes to look good, likes to spend time with friends."


"I'm not the next anyone, I'm the first Maria Sharapova."


"I've been playing against older and stronger competition my whole life. It has made me a better tennis player and able to play against this kind of level despite their strength and experience. "

On the Forbes 2006 Richest Young Celebrities List, it is reported she earned $18.2 million in 2005. She was the highest-paid female athlete of the year.

Car company Land Rover has signed her to a three-year deal that one source said is worth approximately $2 million a year. (April 4, 2006)

Became number 1 in the world in August 2005 & is the first Russian player to become the best player in the world.

Won the 2004 WTA Championships, defeating Serena Williams 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 in the final to pocket one million dollars and win a new Porsche Cayenne to donate to a charity of her choice.

Was the youngest titlist on the WTA Tour in 2003 with two championships under her belt.

Signed with IMG Models in November 2003

Born in Siberia, Russia, and raised in the United States since age seven. Father Yuri brought her to the U.S. in 1994, but mother Yelena didn't join them until two years later due to visa problems.

Was (and still is) so ambidextrous that she almost became a left-handed tennis player.

Her loudest grunt was measured at 101.2 decibels (louder than a motorcycle or a lawnmower) on 21 June 2005 at Wimbledon Centre Court. Previously the loudest grunt was by Monica Seles at 93.2 decibels.

According to the LA Times and Orange County Register, Maria said at a press conference she has grown a few cm this year and is now 6' 2. She's been having back pains and has had to pull out of some tournaments due to the pain which she thinks is from a growth spurt.

Sometimes credited as: Maria Yuryevna Sharapova

Nickname: Masha

Trade mark: Plays right –handed; 2 handed backhand

Used to be called the Siberian Siren because of her extremely loud grunting whenever she hit the ball.

Coached by her father Yuri Sharapov and Robert Lansdorp.