Maria Sharapova

Maria Sharapova stands an intimidating six feet two inches tall, and is considered by many to be quite beautiful. Plenty of writers and fans see a great deal of similarity between this young Russian and Anna Kournikova, but in doing so they are overlooking one important fact: Maria Sharapova wins tournaments.

Her 2004 Wimbledon performance was astonishing from any player, let alone a 17-year old (Maria Sharapova was born April 19, 1987. Already a player to watch, Maria Sharapova entered the Wimbledon tournament on the heels of 22 consecutive victories on grass. But the surprises didn’t stop there. She went on to earn the title of singles champion at Wimbledon and in other prominent tournaments later in the year.

Her ascendancy to high profile status was aided by her good looks, which have won her valuable promotion contracts as well as extra media exposure. People, FHM and Maxim have all granted her various awards and rankings for her beauty and sexiness. She has participated in several modeling projects, doing work outside of her Canon promotions. Her modeling credentials include a spread in Sports Illustrated’s annual swimsuit issue—a coveted modeling assignment.

She has continued winning tournaments despite the added toll modeling and promotions take on her time. She has publicly expressed an interest in reducing her participation in these activities, wanting to put her energy into her tennis game. The media has more or less followed suit; as she continues to make news every time she steps on the tennis court getting a story about the popular player is as simple as following the most elite tournaments.

Like other high performing female players before her, Sharapova is known for the explosive grunts and screams that accompany her powerful strokes during matches. But equally renowned are her intense, almost trance-like focus on the court. A serious competitor, Maria Sharapova attributes her tenacity to her sheer love of the game. Raised in Russia, Sharapova remains proud of her nationality. She is not known for comradely conduct with other tournament competitors and enjoys the freedom to travel her profession affords her.