Childhood and Education Journey of Maria Sharapova in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 12, 2026

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

Maria Sharapova is a retired professional tennis player widely regarded as one of the sport's all-time greats. Rising to global stardom at age 17 by defeating Serena Williams to win the 2004 Wimbledon title, she went on to complete a career Grand Slam, winning all four major championships. Known for her aggressive baseline play and signature competitive intensity, Sharapova spent 21 weeks as the world number one in singles. Beyond her athletic achievements, she was one of the highest-paid female athletes for over a decade, leveraging her success into significant business ventures, including her premium confectionery brand, Sugarpova. Despite a career interrupted by injury and a high-profile suspension for a doping violation in 2016, Sharapova remains a major pop-culture icon, recognized for her resilience and influence in both sports and international fashion.

Sections (7)

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

1986: Relocation due to Chernobyl

In 1986, Maria Sharapova's parents decided to leave their hometown of Gomel, Byelorussian SSR, due to their concerns regarding the regional health and environmental effects of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear accident.

April 1987: Birth of Maria Sharapova

Maria Yuryevna Sharapova was born in April 1987, marking the beginning of the life of the future professional tennis player.

Others born on this day/year

1990: Relocation to Sochi

In 1990, at the age of three, Maria Sharapova moved with her family to Sochi, Russia, a move that would eventually facilitate her introduction to the sport of tennis through her father's social connections.

1991: First Tennis Lessons

In 1991, at the age of four, Maria Sharapova received her first tennis racquet from Aleksandr Kafelnikov and began practicing regularly with her father at a local park, eventually starting formal lessons with coach Yuri Yutkin.

1993: Tennis clinic and professional recommendation

In 1993, six-year-old Maria Sharapova attended a tennis clinic in Moscow hosted by Martina Navratilova, who recognized her potential and advised that she receive professional training from Nick Bollettieri at the IMG Academy in Florida.

1994: Relocation to the United States

In 1994, Maria Sharapova and her father, Yuri, moved to the United States to pursue her tennis career despite limited financial resources and the language barrier, beginning their journey toward her enrollment at the IMG Academy.

1995: IMG sponsorship and academy enrollment

In 1995, Maria Sharapova was officially signed by IMG, which committed to covering her $35,000 annual tuition fee, allowing her to enroll in the academy at the age of nine.

February 2007: United Nations Goodwill Ambassador Appointment

In February 2007, Maria Sharapova began her service as a United Nations Development Programme Goodwill Ambassador, focusing her efforts on supporting the Chernobyl Recovery and Development Programme.