Maria Sharapova, the former tennis champion known for her fierce on-court presence and entrepreneurial acumen, is now set to make a bold move in the business world. The five-time Grand Slam winner, who has seamlessly transitioned into a successful businesswoman since retiring from professional tennis in 2020, has announced plans to build an innovative industrial complex in her home country of Russia. This ambitious new project marks a significant expansion of Sharapova’s business empire and a major contribution to the economic landscape in Russia.
The new complex, which will be located in the Moscow region, is designed to be a cutting-edge hub for a range of industries, including technology, sustainable manufacturing, and health and wellness. Sharapova, who has long been interested in sustainability and innovation, aims to create a state-of-the-art facility that combines advanced industrial capabilities with environmentally responsible practices.
A Bold New Chapter in Sharapova’s Business Journey
Sharapova, who turned professional at the age of 14 and became one of the most recognizable athletes in the world, has always had a keen interest in business. Since retiring from tennis, she has shifted her focus to ventures outside of sports, including her successful candy brand, Sugarpova, and investments in a range of industries from wellness and health to fashion and tech. However, her new industrial complex represents the most ambitious and large-scale project she has undertaken to date.
The industrial complex will span over 100 hectares of land, making it one of the largest such developments in the Moscow region in recent years. The complex will host a variety of businesses, including manufacturing units for high-tech products, research and development centers, and corporate offices. Sharapova’s vision is to create a place that fosters innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, offering businesses the infrastructure they need to thrive in the 21st century.
“After my tennis career, I was focused on finding new ways to challenge myself,” Sharapova said in a statement announcing the project. “I’ve always been passionate about building things from the ground up, and this industrial complex is a dream that will not only support my business goals but also contribute to Russia’s future as a hub for innovation and sustainable industry.”
Sustainability at the Heart of the Complex
One of the standout features of Sharapova’s industrial complex will be its commitment to sustainability. Given her personal interest in health and wellness, as well as the growing importance of environmental responsibility, Sharapova has emphasized the incorporation of green technologies throughout the facility. The complex will be powered by renewable energy sources, including solar panels and wind turbines, and will be built using energy-efficient materials.
Moreover, the facility will include water recycling systems, waste management programs, and eco-friendly waste-to-energy initiatives designed to reduce the environmental footprint of the industrial operations. Sharapova has partnered with several leading environmental experts and architects to ensure that the complex is built to the highest sustainability standards, aiming for certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method).
“We have a responsibility to not only innovate but to do so in a way that doesn’t compromise the planet’s future,” Sharapova said. “This project is a reflection of my values—creating something that supports progress, while also being mindful of our environmental impact.”
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The industrial complex is set to be a game-changer for the Russian economy, particularly in the Moscow region. Once fully operational, the complex is expected to create thousands of jobs, from skilled manufacturing positions to roles in research and development, logistics, and management. Sharapova’s team has confirmed that a key focus of the project will be to hire and train local talent, with a particular emphasis on offering opportunities to younger generations looking to work in advanced industries.
The development is also expected to attract both domestic and international companies seeking access to state-of-the-art facilities and a modern, sustainable business environment. With the Russian government eager to diversify its economy beyond traditional industries like oil and gas, Sharapova’s industrial complex is well-positioned to become a key player in this transformation. Experts believe that it could act as a catalyst for further industrial development in the region, making it an attractive destination for foreign investment.
“This complex will not only bring advanced manufacturing capabilities to Russia but will also help position the country as a leader in green industry and innovation,” said Alexey Kudrin, the former Russian finance minister and a supporter of the project. “It will create high-quality jobs and further integrate Russia into the global economy.”
Sharapova’s Legacy Beyond Tennis
While Sharapova will always be remembered as one of tennis’s most successful and iconic figures, her business ventures have already begun to establish her as a formidable entrepreneur. In addition to her candy brand, Sugarpova, Sharapova has invested in a variety of companies, including health and wellness brands, digital startups, and even sports apparel. She has also been involved in philanthropic endeavors through her Maria Sharapova Foundation, which focuses on supporting children’s education and sports initiatives around the world.
Her move into the industrial sector is a testament to her vision and drive, as well as her desire to leave a lasting impact beyond sports. In interviews, Sharapova has spoken about how her tennis career helped shape her approach to business, emphasizing the lessons she learned about discipline, resilience, and leadership.
“I’m not someone who rests on my laurels,” Sharapova explained. “In tennis, I learned the importance of pushing myself beyond my limits. Now, I’m applying that same mindset to building something meaningful in business. The industrial complex is just one part of a broader vision, and I’m excited about the opportunities it will bring—not only for me but for the people who will be a part of it.”
Looking Ahead
The industrial complex is slated to break ground in late 2025, with the first phase of construction expected to be completed by 2028. As Sharapova continues to grow her business empire, the new venture marks a bold step in her post-tennis career. For Russia, it represents a new chapter in industrial innovation, one that could position the country as a leader in sustainability and advanced manufacturing.
As Sharapova looks toward the future, her complex serves as more than just a business opportunity—it’s a reflection of her broader ambitions to create something lasting, impactful, and transformative. The tennis star may have retired from the court, but her legacy is now being built brick by brick in the world of business.
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