Born on April 19, 1987, Maria Sharapova started her career as a professional tennis player at the very young age of 6 years. Her turning point was in October 1993 when a renowned tennis player, Martina Navratilova, was impressed by her skills and told the father that she was talented. Her father, Yuri Sharapov, decided to nurture this young talent by seeking professional coaching for Maria.
The family relocated to the United States in March 1995 whereby Yuri continued to coach her daughter until she received a scholarship to the prestigious IMG’s Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in Bradenton, Florida, at the age of 9 years. In 2000, the then 13-year-old Maria won her first major title – the Girl’s 16-and-under Eddie Herr Championship.
Her professional journey started officially in April 2001 before participating in the 2002 WTA tournament. She then shot at the top of the world stage in 2004 when she beat the seasoned Serena Williams to clinch her first grand slam win at the Wimbledon championship at the age of 17 years.