Maria Sharapova, the former world No. 1 and five-time Grand Slam champion, graced the US Open at Flushing Meadows in a role that suits her best now—mom. The 36-year-old Russian, who welcomed her son Theodore with fiancé Alexander Gilkes on July 1, 2022, made heads turn as she attended the opening day in a striking red power suit, showcasing her style and confidence on and off the court.
Delighted with her new perspective, Sharapova expressed, “I’m very happy with where I am at this stage of life. I appreciate what the sport has taught me and where it’s taken me, but I definitely love seeing it from the outside now.” Having retired from tennis in February 2020 after a first-round defeat at the Australian Open, she now finds joy in being a spectator, relishing the opportunity to witness the sport she dominated for years.
“I love it,” Sharapova enthused about being present at the US Open, which runs until Sept. 10. “I love having an outsider’s perspective. I love watching the new generations unfold, and the sport in general. In fact, I think the US Open is the only tennis event that I’ve been to in person since I retired. It’s a really special one, with the energy of the crowds there.”
Accompanied by fashion designer Gabriela Hearst, Sharapova attended the event and shared their photo on her Instagram Story. The two were seen seated near iconic designer Vera Wang and Anna Wintour, the long-serving editor-in-chief of Vogue, underscoring Sharapova’s continued presence in the fashion and tennis worlds.
She’s the captain of the SS Evian
In addition to her role as a spectator, Sharapova is the captain of the SS Evian, a floating tennis court that will cruise the Hudson River during the men’s final on Sept. 10. This unique venture aligns well with her various business ventures, which now coexist with her commitment to motherhood.
“After you do have a child, there are so many other more important responsibilities that you have to take care of,” Sharapova shared. “If I miss a workout one day, I give myself that break. Or if I want to spoil myself and eat a cookie at midday randomly, then that’s okay too. So I think it’s finding the right moments of that balance.”
With a supportive husband and family, she navigates her multifaceted roles, acknowledging that each week brings new challenges. Sharapova’s engagement to Alexander Gilkes, confirmed in December 2020, adds another layer to her evolving narrative of motherhood and embracing new experiences.
A Fashion Icon and Tennis Legend
Sharapova has long been known for her fierce competitiveness on the tennis court and her striking presence off it. Renowned for her fashion-forward style, she has graced red carpets and fashion events, solidifying her status as a fashion icon. Her collaboration with various brands, including her own line of candies, Sugarpova, has further expanded her influence beyond tennis.
In her recent appearance at the US Open, Sharapova once again demonstrated her flair for fashion, donning a red power suit that perfectly captured her confident and elegant demeanor. The choice of a bold color reflected her assertiveness and the impact she continues to make in the world of sports and fashion.
The Journey into Motherhood
Maria Sharapova’s journey into motherhood has added a new and fulfilling chapter to her life story. Welcoming her son Theodore in July 2022 marked a significant milestone, and she has embraced the joys and challenges of balancing her various roles. The decision to attend the US Open and engage in activities like captaining the SS Evian showcases her ability to navigate diverse responsibilities while staying true to her passions.
While her tennis racket may have been temporarily set aside, Sharapova’s involvement in the sport remains vibrant. The SS Evian, with its floating tennis court, symbolizes her enduring connection to tennis and her innovative approach to blending sports and entertainment.
Finding Balance and Embracing New Experiences
Sharapova’s candid reflections on finding balance as a mother and businesswoman resonate with many women navigating similar paths. Her willingness to give herself breaks and enjoy simple pleasures like a midday cookie underscores the importance of self-care amid busy schedules.
The US Open provides a unique platform for Sharapova to reconnect with the sport that defined much of her career. As she watches the new generation of players take center stage, her outsider’s perspective adds depth to her appreciation for the evolving landscape of tennis.
A Special Moment at the US Open
The US Open holds a special place in Sharapova’s heart, and her presence at the event reflects the enduring energy and excitement it brings. From the cheers of the crowd to the competitive spirit on the courts, the US Open offers a unique atmosphere that resonates with both players and fans.
As Maria Sharapova continues to embrace new chapters in her life, from motherhood to captaining a floating tennis court, her journey remains an inspiring narrative of resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to pursuing passions beyond the tennis court. The red power suit she wore at the US Open is not just a fashion statement; it’s a symbol of her continued influence, style, and the vibrant chapters yet to unfold in her remarkable story.