Maria Sharapova is a former Russian professional tennis player with a net worth of $180 million. Her career in tennis and off-court ventures have contributed significantly to her wealth, making her one of the highest-earning female athletes in the world.
Despite retiring from professional tennis in 2020, Sharapova’s legacy in the sport, along with her successful business ventures, continues to maintain her high net worth.
Early Life and Background
Maria Yuryevna Sharapova was born on April 19, 1987, in Nyagan, Russia, just as the Soviet Union was transitioning.
When Maria was just three years old, her family relocated to Sochi, a resort city on Russia’s Black Sea coast. Maria started playing tennis at the age of four, displaying remarkable skill early on.
At the age of six, she was recommended for a tennis clinic by an instructor who saw her potential.
Due to her talent, Sharapova’s family moved to the United States in 1994 to further her tennis development. Her father borrowed money to send Maria to the prestigious IMG Academy in Florida, where she trained rigorously.
Within two years, Maria’s mother was able to join them in the U.S. after securing her visa. Sharapova’s early training was grueling, and she was eventually offered a scholarship by IMG.
Rise to Stardom and Early Career Achievements
Maria Sharapova’s breakthrough came in 2004 when, at just 17 years old, she won the Wimbledon championship by defeating Serena Williams in the final.
This victory propelled her into international stardom, making her one of the most recognized faces in tennis.
Over the next few years, she continued to build her career, winning multiple tournaments and achieving her first Career Grand Slam by winning the four major tennis titles: the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open.
By the age of 21, Sharapova had established herself as one of the best players in the world, with a total of 36 WTA titles to her name.
She was especially known for her powerful groundstrokes and aggressive playing style, which set her apart from many of her peers.
Challenges and Setbacks
Sharapova’s career was not without challenges. Throughout her journey, she had to deal with multiple injuries, including shoulder and ankle problems, which impacted her rankings.
Despite this, she continued to climb to the top of the rankings and spent a total of 21 weeks as the No. 1 player in the world.
In 2016, Sharapova faced a major setback when she was suspended for a doping violation. She had tested positive for meldonium, a substance that had only recently been banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Sharapova claimed that she had been unaware that the drug was banned and that it was part of her doctor’s prescription. After serving a suspension, Sharapova made her return to tennis, but the incident tarnished her public image.
Retirement and Post-Tennis Ventures
After her return to tennis, Sharapova’s form was inconsistent, and her injuries continued to plague her. She officially retired from professional tennis in 2020, having played over 800 matches in her career.
Despite her early retirement, Sharapova’s influence on the sport and her business ventures have helped maintain her wealth.
Off the court, Sharapova has enjoyed significant success. She built a successful candy brand, “Sugarpova,” which further added to her wealth.
Additionally, her endorsement deals with major brands, including Nike, Head, and Porsche, allowed her to maintain a high profile even after leaving professional tennis.
For 11 consecutive years, Sharapova was ranked as the highest-paid female athlete globally.
Endorsements and Business Ventures
Sharapova’s wealth is a result not only of her on-court earnings but also her off-court ventures. She was known for securing lucrative endorsement deals with global brands like Canon, Head, Porsche, and Evian.
These partnerships helped her make over $285 million since turning professional in 2001.
Apart from endorsements, Sharapova’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to launch her own candy company, “Sugarpova,” which quickly became a success in the U.S. and internationally.
This business venture added another stream of income, solidifying her place as one of the wealthiest athletes of her time.
Real Estate Investments
Maria Sharapova has made several notable investments in real estate, which contribute to her overall wealth. In 2020, she purchased a five-acre estate in Summerland, California, for $8.6 million.
Later, in January 2024, she bought a 3.3-acre property in Montecito, California, for $11 million. However, her primary residence remains a luxurious mansion in Manhattan Beach, California, reflecting her continued success in life after tennis.
