Russian tennis great Maria Sharapova made a special appearance at the US Open 2024, attending the prestigious Champions of Equality event alongside prominent figures like Shonda Rhimes, Billie Jean King, and Robin Roberts. The event celebrated individuals who have championed equality and paved the way for positive change.
Sharapova, who turned 37 this year, has a storied career marked by exceptional achievements and records. Her journey to the top began in 2001, and she rose to become a dominant force in the sport. She won her first Grand Slam title at the tender age of 17, defeating the legendary Serena Williams in the 2004 Wimbledon final, announcing her arrival on the global stage.
Sharapova’s trophy cabinet boasts an impressive collection of five Grand Slam singles titles: the US Open (2006), Australian Open (2008), and the French Open (2012 and 2014). This remarkable feat earned her a rare distinction: achieving the career Grand Slam (winning all four major championships). She remains the only Russian player to accomplish this incredible milestone, solidifying her position as a trailblazer in Russian tennis.
Beyond her on-court triumphs, Sharapova’s success translated into substantial financial rewards, with her career prize money exceeding $38 million. She held the world No. 1 ranking for a total of 21 weeks across five separate periods, with her final reign at the top coming in 2012.
In February 2020, after a remarkable career spanning nearly two decades and garnering 36 career titles, Sharapova made the difficult decision to step away from professional tennis. Her presence at the Champions of Equality event serves as a reminder of her exceptional accomplishments and her enduring legacy as a champion on and off the court.
