TENNIS star Maria Sharapova blows the competition away as she flaunts her athletic figure in sports underwear, snapped with windswept hair.
The five-time Grand Slam champion, 32, threw a curveball last week when she announced her retirement from the sport.
She said: “Tennis – I’m saying goodbye. After 28 years and five Grand Slam titles, I’m ready to scale another mountain.”
Before getting into the full swing of things though, the pro admits there are a few simple things she’s looking forward to enjoying first.
She said: “A sense of stillness with my family. Lingering over a morning cup of coffee. Unexpected weekend getaways. Workouts of my choice (hello, dance class!).”
She is also looking forward to retiring to her luxury LA beach pad, which took three years to build.
Maria announced her shocking retirement with an exclusive 1,148-word essay for Vogue and Vanity Fair last week.
Having fallen to 373rd in the world as she struggled with a shoulder injury, the Florida-based star feels now is the right time to walk away from the competitive arena.
She will forever remain a glamorous yet controversial figure in the sport.
Maria Sharapova makes post-retirement appearance – All You Need to Know-
Maria Sharapova made her first public appearance since announcing her retirement by coaching at the WTT Celebrity All-Star Match on Sunday. The inaugural match was held at the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.
“I’ve been part of World TeamTennis ever since I was a little girl. It was really the event that gave me the experience that I needed at that age,” Sharapova said. “I remember, leaving WTT, I went on to win a smaller WTA event and it was the beginning of my career. I’ve played World TeamTennis on this court, so good memories to be back here.”
Team Sharapova would lose to Team Bryan Brothers, 22-13.
Her team consisted of Monica Puig, CoCo Vandeweghe, Ryan Harrison and Mardy Fish. Bob and Mike Bryan were joined by Madison Keys, Taylor Townsend, Sam Querrey and James Blake.
Though still a competitive tennis match, the exhibition included some wild moments including when LMFAO singer Redfoo subbed in for Mike Bryan.
Sharapova is scheduled to play two WTT matches this season for the Orange County Breakers, on July 28 and July 29.
