Maria Sharapova is one of those female athletes known by many for her looks. But she’s an accomplished athlete, and there’s probably a lot you don’t know about the tennis talent. Read below for the first half of our 15 things you didn’t know about her.
Number Fifteen: Maria Sharapova’s Favorite Place to Be in the Offseason Is Italy
She may be one of the most famous Russians in sports, but she likes to vacation on Italian beaches in her off time. Makes sense for someone who was born in Siberia.
Number Fourteen: Her Family Had to Flee Their Home
Sharapova’s family had to leave the land they were raising her on. This is because of the Chernobyl disaster – the family did not want to be exposed to the harmful radiation that followed in the wake of the disaster.
Number Thirteen: She Is a UN Goodwill Ambassador
This is certainly a prestigious accomplishment by the athlete. She has contributed heavily to projects related to the aftermath of Chernobyl – a crisis that (literally) hits close to home.
Number Twelve: She Brings a Cashmere Scarf With Her Wherever She Goes
Maria has said she doesn’t like to be too weighed down when she travels. But she also loves the feeling of cashmere, so she brings a scarf made of the material with her.
Number Eleven: She Has Been the Most Searched Athlete
And she’s held this position more than once. In both 2005 and 2008, more people searched for the tennis star on Yahoo than any other person in professional sports.
Number Ten: She Starting Her Career in Endorsements Very Young
Probably younger than you would have guessed. Her first deal was with Nike when she was just 11 years old. Obviously she was a talented athlete from a young age, but she was a prodigious endorser as well.
Number Nine: She Moved to Miami With Only $700
In 1994 she moved to the city with her father to pursue her dream of playing professional tennis. They moved to the Florida city with only $700. That’s all we’ve got for now, but be sure to check back for more soon!