Tennis fans around the world were left doing double takes recently after a new photo of Maria Sharapova surfaced — and many could hardly recognize the former Grand Slam champion. The image, which has been circulating on social media, reveals a dramatically different look for the Russian tennis legend, sparking waves of surprise and admiration from fans who remember her dominating the courts not so long ago.
At 38, Sharapova has been largely out of the competitive tennis spotlight since announcing her retirement in 2020. However, her connection to the sport and her presence in the public eye remain strong. Whether she’s attending high-profile tennis events, launching business ventures, or speaking at international forums, Sharapova has kept her post-tennis life equally dynamic and impactful. Yet, this latest glimpse into her life has stirred a different kind of buzz — not about titles or rivalries, but about her striking transformation.
The former world No. 1 looks nearly unrecognizable in the recent image, showcasing a softer, more refined style that stands in contrast to the fierce, focused competitor fans remember from her playing days. Gone are the tennis ponytail and athletic gear. Instead, the photo features Sharapova in a minimalist, fashion-forward outfit with sleek makeup and a natural hairstyle, highlighting her evolution from athlete to lifestyle icon.
Sharapova has always had a deep interest in fashion and branding, even during her career on the WTA Tour. That flair has only grown since retirement. She’s remained active in the world of business, including as the founder of Sugarpova, her premium candy line, and has become a sought-after voice in entrepreneurship and women’s leadership spaces. The new image, in many ways, reflects this shift. It’s the look of a woman who has reinvented herself — a blend of elegance, strength, and maturity that speaks to her journey beyond the tennis court.
Still, for many longtime fans, it’s hard not to feel nostalgic. Sharapova burst onto the global stage as a teenager when she captured her first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in 2004, defeating Serena Williams in a match that would mark the beginning of one of the sport’s most iconic rivalries. Over the years, she amassed five Grand Slam titles, became one of the most marketable athletes in the world, and reached the pinnacle of the sport as the No. 1 ranked player in 2005.
While her career wasn’t without controversy — including a suspension in 2016 for a banned substance — Sharapova’s comeback and subsequent retirement were handled with grace and professionalism. Since stepping away from the game, she’s embraced motherhood, explored investment ventures, and remained a global celebrity with a reputation for poise and intelligence.
This recent photo, though unexpected in its visual impact, is simply another chapter in the fascinating post-tennis life of Maria Sharapova. Whether courtside at Wimbledon, speaking on a panel in Davos, or launching a new brand, she continues to captivate audiences in new and evolving ways.
So while she may look different, one thing hasn’t changed: Maria Sharapova still knows how to make headlines — just now, it’s with elegance instead of aces.