This Wimbledon marks a very special milestone for Maria Sharapova – it is 20 years since she won the tournament, when she was just 17 years old. Her time in SW19 now looks very different to those in the years gone by – rather than dealing with the pressure of playing on court, the retired player has been enjoying the sport from the sidelines and creating something of a fashion show in her custom Burberry looks.
“It has been very special to be here,” she tells me. “There is such great energy in London and being a small part of Wimbledon history always makes it have that extra significance, especially when we are marking such a big moment in my career. It’s been really nice to reflect on that.”
Sharapova announced her retirement from the sport in 2020 and has since gone on to start a new chapter in her life, one which is focussed on building her foundation, working with some inspiring brands and raising her son. “Being able to embrace both the challenges and the beauty of being a mother has been amazing, so I am really enjoying where I am at right now.”