Lasting Legacy of Maria Sharapova: A Look at the Influence on History

How the contributions of Maria Sharapova continue to shape the world today.

Maria Sharapova is a retired Russian professional tennis player who achieved the world No. 1 ranking. A dominant force in women's tennis, she held the top spot for 21 weeks and accumulated 36 WTA Tour-level singles titles. Her career is highlighted by five major titles and winning the 2004 WTA Tour Championships. Sharapova distinguished herself as one of the few women to accomplish a Career Grand Slam in singles, solidifying her place among the sport's elite.

Sections (7)

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

April 2005: Named one of People's 50 most beautiful celebrities

In April 2005, People magazine named Sharapova one of the 50 most beautiful celebrities in the world, reflecting her widespread recognition and public appeal.

2005: Named to Forbes Celebrity 100

From 2005, Sharapova was named to the Forbes Celebrity 100, which attempts to compile the top 100 most powerful celebrities of that year.

March 2006: Highest-paid female athlete

In March 2006, Forbes magazine listed Sharapova as the highest-paid female athlete in the world, with annual earnings of over US$18 million, mostly from endorsements and sponsorships.

2007: Continued as highest-paid female athlete

In 2007, Sharapova continued to be the highest-paid female athlete, topping the Forbes list despite her shoulder injury.

June 2011: Named a Tennis Legend

In June 2011, Maria Sharapova was named one of the "30 Legends of Women's Tennis: Past, Present and Future" by Time.

2011: Last year on Forbes Celebrity 100

2011 was the last year that Sharapova was named to the Forbes Celebrity 100.

2011: Only woman on Forbes list of top-paid athletes

In 2011, Forbes listed Sharapova as No. 29 in their list of 50 top-paid athletes, making her the only woman on the list.

March 2012: Named One of the Greatest of All Time

In March 2012, Maria Sharapova was named one of the "100 Greatest of All Time" by Tennis Channel.

2012: French Open Victory and Olympic Flag Bearer

In 2012, Maria Sharapova won the French Open, securing her fourth career Grand Slam title and completing a Career Grand Slam. She was also chosen by the Russian Olympic Committee to be the flag bearer at the opening ceremony for the 2012 Summer Olympics, becoming the first female Russian athlete to receive this honor.

2012: Forbes list of top-paid athletes

In 2012, Sharapova was listed as No. 15 on the Forbes list of top-paid athletes, joined by Li Na at No. 16 and Serena Williams at No. 17.

2014: Torch bearer at Sochi Winter Olympics

In 2014, Sharapova helped to promote the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, and was the first torch bearer in the torch-lighting ceremony during the opening festivities.