A great tennis career is something that a 15-year-old normally doesn't have. I hope my example helps other teens believe they can accomplish things they never thought possible.
I don't follow other players or the tournaments they play. I have my own schedule and do my own thing. I never really think, 'Oh, I want to be or play like so-and-so.' I just like being myself.
I learned there's a big difference between juniors and the pros.
I'm just like every other girl who likes to shop, likes to look good, likes to spend time with friends.
I'm not the next anyone, I'm the first Maria Sharapova.
I've been playing against older and stronger competition my whole life. It has made me a better tennis player and able to play against this kind of level despite their strength and experience.
Sometimes I feel my arm is like a swan's neck - so weak.
Well, fans always root for the underdog.
In April 2005 Sharapova was listed by "People Magazine" as among the 50 most beautiful celebrities in the world.
Maria has won a total of 13 singles titles, her latest being in New York, September 2006.
Maria favors Russian food, but also enjoys Italian bread.
Maria enjoys reading books her favouroites are Sherlock Holmes and Pippi Longstocking.
She enjoys singing and dancing.
At the age of 9 she began training at Nick Bollettieri's Tennis Academy located in Brandenton, Florida, USA.
She is the first Russian player to become the number 1 player in the world.
Her loudest grunt was measured at 101.2 decibels which is louder than a motorcycle.
She won the 2004 WTA Championship, defeating Serena Williams 4-6, 6-2, 6-4.
Her father Yuri brought her to the U.S. in 1994, but her mother Yelena didn't join them until two years later due to a problem gaining a visa.
She was born in Siberia, Russia.
She plays with a 2 handed backhand.
She is 6' 2" (1.88 m) tall.
Maria was seeded #4 at the 2006 Australian Open.
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