Maria Sharapova, one of the most iconic figures in the world of tennis, is taking the next steps in her life after retirement—and it’s a journey toward privacy, purpose, and new ventures. After 19 years at the pinnacle of professional tennis, the Russian-born athlete, who was once ranked No. 1 in the world and won five Grand Slam titles, retired in 2020. Now, in her first extensive interview about life beyond the court, Sharapova has opened up about what life is like after stepping away from the sport that defined her for so long.
Sharapova’s career was marked by both stunning triumphs and intense challenges. From winning Wimbledon at the age of 17 to her battle with a doping suspension in 2016, her life in the spotlight has been anything but ordinary. But now, at 37 years old, Sharapova is embracing a quieter, more intentional way of living. In a recent conversation, she explained how she is navigating her new normal—one that is centered on rediscovery, self-care, and a deep commitment to her evolving business pursuits.
“I’ve spent so much of my life being the center of attention on the tennis court, and now I’m in a place where I don’t feel the need for that spotlight anymore,” Sharapova says. “It’s not that I don’t value the career I had, but I’ve realized that I’m more than just what people saw on TV. I’ve always had passions outside of tennis, and now I’m focusing on them with a clear sense of purpose.”
Shifting Focus to Business and Entrepreneurship
Since her retirement, Sharapova has poured much of her energy into her business ventures, particularly her health and wellness brand, Sugarpova, a premium candy company she founded in 2012. The company, which started with a line of luxury sweets, has since expanded into the health-conscious snack market. But Sharapova is not stopping there—she has also invested in several startups and launched a venture capital firm with a focus on companies led by women.
“I’m passionate about empowering entrepreneurs, especially women who are trying to make a mark in industries that have been dominated by men for so long,” she explains. “Business is another kind of competition, but it’s one where I get to choose the playing field. I’ve always been a strategist, and I bring that mindset into everything I do.”
Her post-tennis career is a testament to her business acumen and determination to carve out a new identity. Sharapova’s interest in health and wellness, in particular, has become a major part of her brand. With a deep understanding of the importance of physical and mental well-being, she is committed to developing products that not only cater to consumers’ tastes but also align with her own values of sustainability and health-conscious living.
Embracing Privacy and Family Life
For Sharapova, privacy has become a luxury she treasures. During her time in the limelight, her personal life was often as closely scrutinized as her athletic career. From her high-profile relationships to her controversial doping suspension, Sharapova’s every move was followed by fans and critics alike. But now, she says, she’s more inclined to enjoy life away from the cameras.
One of the most significant changes in her life has been her role as a mother. In 2022, she welcomed her first child, a son named Theodore, with her fiancé, British businessman Alexander Gilkes. The arrival of her son has shifted her priorities, and Sharapova speaks about motherhood with a newfound sense of fulfillment and joy.
“Becoming a mom has been the most transformative experience of my life. It’s the one area where nothing matters more than being present. My time is no longer my own, and that has been a beautiful challenge,” she says, her voice warm with emotion. “It’s funny because I used to think that achieving greatness was about having more, doing more. But now, it’s about giving more, being more present, and savoring every moment.”
Looking Ahead
While Sharapova’s days on the tennis court are behind her, she is far from being done making an impact. Her story of resilience, reinvention, and ambition continues to inspire those who watched her compete for nearly two decades. Whether in the boardroom, through her business ventures, or in her personal life as a mother, Sharapova is proving that life after tennis doesn’t have to be defined by the past.
“I think I’m in a place now where I’m not just chasing the next goal or milestone. I’m living in the moment, enjoying where I am, and continuing to build toward what I believe is a fulfilling and meaningful future,” Sharapova reflects. “It’s not about the trophies anymore. It’s about living a life I’m proud of, one where I feel whole, happy, and at peace.”
As Maria Sharapova steps into this new chapter of life, it’s clear that the legacy she leaves behind will be one of inspiration, not just for her tennis accomplishments but for her courage in forging a path toward something greater, richer, and more personal. And while the world may no longer see her on the tennis court, it will continue to watch as she embraces a future that is all her own.
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