Maria Sharapova’s Transition: A Champion’s Journey
Maria Sharapova is in a state of transition, and it’s inspiring.
In February 2020, the Russian pro tennis player announced her decision to retire from the sport at a professional level. Then just 32 years old, she already had a total of 36 titles under her belt, including five major titles—one each from the Australian Open, Wimbledon, and the U.S. Open, and two at the French Open. Today, she remains just one of 10 women, and the only Russian-born tennis player, to have achieved a career grand slam.
Embracing New Horizons: From Court to Boardroom
Sharapova left the sport she loves because she was no longer at her peak—her injuries from years on the court had become a constant source of pain, and she could not compete with her previous achievements. But she still had her entire life ahead of her.
One global pandemic later, Sharapova has followed the footsteps of pro athletes before her and taken a natural next step as a sports and wellness brand ambassador. She is now a member of the board of directors of fashion brand Moncler and continues to endorse brands like Nike and Evian. She has also collaborated with various start-ups, including Therabody and Tonal.
Honoring the Game: Maria’s U.S. Open Activation
This year’s U.S. Open marks a big occasion for Sharapova, who, now as a supporter and spectator, is honoring the game she knows so well with her own activation. Together with Evian, the athlete is launching a floating tennis court in the New York Harbor—the first of its kind—where she will play with fans as a large screen streams the U.S. Open matches for spectators to watch while sailing.
The ship will take off September 10, and ahead of the momentous occasion, Bazaar.com spoke to Sharapova about the current state of tennis, her life off the court, and what she’s looking forward to this season.
A Natural Partnership: Evian and Maria Sharapova
Evian has been the official water of the U.S. Open for more than 35 years, and our partnership has gone through so many exciting phases. From the Live Young campaign at the very beginning of our partnership, to a sustainability project with [Dutch fashion designer] Iris van Herpen a couple of years ago, to now experiencing the U.S. Open from the waters on the SS Evian with the first floating tennis court in New York City. Evian has always been at the forefront of hydration, educating athletes and fans alike about what it means to have a healthy and balanced lifestyle. This is just another extension of our partnership, allowing us to celebrate tennis, share the importance of hydration, and create unforgettable experiences together.
