Childhood and Education Journey of Maria Sharapova in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Maria Sharapova. From birth to education, explore key events.

Maria Sharapova is a retired Russian professional tennis player. She achieved the world No. 1 ranking and held it for 21 weeks. Sharapova's career highlights include winning 36 WTA Tour-level singles titles. She is a five-time major champion and secured the WTA Tour Championships in 2004. Sharapova is one of ten women to complete a career Grand Slam in singles.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1986: Chernobyl Nuclear Accident Influence

In 1986, Maria Sharapova's parents left Gomel due to concerns about the regional effects of the Chernobyl nuclear accident, shortly before she was born.

April 1987: Maria Sharapova's Birth

On April 19, 1987, Maria Yuryevna Sharapova was born in Nyagan, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union.

Others born on this day/year

1990: Family Move to Sochi

In 1990, the Sharapova family moved to Sochi, Russia, marking a significant change in their lives.

1991: First Tennis Racquet

In 1991, when Maria Sharapova was four years old, she received her first tennis racquet from Aleksandr Kafelnikov and began practicing regularly with her father.

1993: Tennis Clinic with Martina Navratilova

In 1993, at the age of six, Maria Sharapova attended a tennis clinic in Moscow run by Martina Navratilova, who recommended professional training at the IMG Academy.

1994: Move to the United States

In 1994, Yuri Sharapov and Maria Sharapova moved to the United States to pursue professional tennis training, despite limited financial resources.

1995: Signing with IMG

In 1995, Maria Sharapova was signed by IMG, which agreed to pay her annual tuition fee of $35,000 for her to stay at the academy, allowing her to enroll at the age of 9.

2006: Prescription of Mildronate

In 2006, Sharapova was prescribed mildronate by her doctor for several health issues.

February 2007: United Nations Goodwill Ambassador

In February 2007, Maria Sharapova became a United Nations Development Programme Goodwill Ambassador, focusing on the Chernobyl Recovery and Development Programme.