The Untold Truth About Hollywood Icon Audrey Hepburn
A Star Is Born
Audrey Hepburn was born Audrey Kathleen Ruston on May 4th, 1929, in Brussels, Belgium. She was born into an aristocratic family; her mother was Baroness Ella van Heemstra Ruston-Hepburn, and her father was Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston. The family called the young Audrey by her nickname, Adriaantje.
In 1935, when Audrey was six, her father abandoned the family. He jumped on a boat and disappeared from their lives. His betrayal changed her life and shaped her personality.
Childhood Trauma
In one of her last interviews, Hepburn revealed to Life magazine how devastating her parents’ divorce was. “My father leaving was the first big blow I had as a child; it was a trauma that left a very big mark on me; it left me insecure for life.”
She continued, “He disappeared one day. Mother explained he had gone away on a trip and was not coming back. Mother wouldn’t stop crying, I would just try and be with her, but as a child, you can’t quite understand.”
Origin Story
Years later, Audrey described her father abandoning the family as “the most traumatic event of my life.” She often spoke of the devastating effects of abandonment because she felt that “children need two parents.”
Ella cared for Audrey, but as a product of Dutch nobility, she was old-fashioned, emotionally distant, and cold. “I worshiped my father and missed him terribly from the day he disappeared. … My mother had great love for me, but she was not always able to show it.”
Staying Safe
Audrey grew up in Belgium, The Netherlands, and England. When she was seven, her mom sent her to boarding school in Kent, England, between 1936 and 1939. In 1939, she and her mother returned to the Netherlands because Ella believed they would be safer there.
Ella and Joseph had both raised money for the British right-wing party, and Joseph was later imprisoned as an enemy of the United Kingdom. When Audrey became famous, her PR team worked hard to keep this side of the family history hidden.
Vive La Résistance
However, in 1940, friends, family, and people close to Audrey started disappearing. During interviews with biographer Diana Maychick, she later lamented, “Why was I spared when so many others were not? I asked myself over and over.”
Audrey didn’t share the same views as her parents. In fact, author Robert Matzen believes she joined the Dutch Resistance. According to Matzen’s book, Dutch Girl, Dr. Hendrik Visser ‘t Hooft recruited the young dancer into the resistance.
Secret Ballet
Audrey raised money for the resistance by secretly performing ballet in underground concerts behind locked doors and blacked-out windows. Some biographers say she volunteered as a nurse when she was 16 and even brought messages to vulnerable families.
Audrey always remained humble and tight-lipped about her role in the resistance. But she later revealed, “Every loyal Dutch schoolgirl and boy did their little bit to help. Many were much more courageous than I was.”
Audrey Becomes Gravely Sick
In 1944, the Netherlands experienced a severe famine. To survive, the family ate bread made from ground-up tulip bulbs, but 16-year-old Audrey fell gravely ill. The family fortune had been lost, so — in desperate need of help — Ella sent a begging letter to British Army officer and former lover Micky Burn.
Burn sent Ella hundreds of packets of goods, which she sold on the black market. This raised the money she needed to buy medicine, which saved Audrey’s life.
Early Theater Work
After the war ended, Audrey moved with her mother to Amsterdam, where Baroness Ella suffered more shame, working as a cook and housekeeper for a wealthy family. Meanwhile, Audrey began ballet training under Dutch ballet guru Sonia Gaskell and Russian teacher Olga Tarasova.
Audrey first hit the silver screen playing a flight attendant in Dutch in Seven Lessons (1948). Later the same year, she moved to London after accepting a ballet scholarship with the renowned Ballet Rambert studio. She worked part-time as a model and dropped “Ruston” from her double-barreled surname.
Daddy Issues
While Audrey was rising through her career, she suffered from serious abandonment issues. Around 1950, she located her father through the Red Cross and visited him in Ireland. But Joseph was just as emotionally remote, and the experience left her bitter and hurt.
She later confessed, “If I could have just seen him regularly, I would have felt he loved me, and I would have had a father … You become very insecure about affection and terribly grateful for it, and you have an enormous desire to give it.”
My Fair Lady
Audrey’s West End debut as a chorus girl came in the musical High Button Shoes at the London Hippodrome. A bit like her future character, My Fair Lady’s Eliza Doolittle, she undertook elocution lessons, where English actor Sir Felix Aylmer helped develop her distinctive voice. Within two years, she landed roles in One Wild Oat and Laughter in Paradise.
Next, she landed a third on the billing role, after Alec Guinness and Sid James, in the successful Ealing Comedy crime caper, The Lavender Hill Mob.
Monte Carlo Baby
Audrey traveled to Monaco to film Monte Carlo Baby and wrote to Felix Aylmer, “Would you believe it? I’m in Monte Carlo working on a French picture. The place is heavenly, and this is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”
By sheer coincidence, French novelist Colette was staying at the same hotel and cast Hepburn in the title role in the play of his novel, Gigi. However, while Audrey had danced on stage, she’d never acted on stage. When she arrived for Gigi rehearsals, she required private coaching.
Gigi
By the time Gigi debuted at Pennsylvania’s Fulton Theatre in November 1951, all that private coaching had paid off, and Audrey knocked it out of the park. The New York Times wrote, “Her quality is so winning and so right that she is the success of the evening.”
The musical ran until May of the following year before touring the United States. Along the way, Audrey bagged a Theatre World Award. While hogging the limelight, the lucky guy she was dating was James Hanson, an English millionaire industrialist.
She Called Off the Wedding
She had met the handsome charmer when she first moved to London and called it “love at first sight.” In 1952, Hepburn and the wealthy, soon-to-be Lord Hanson became engaged. They set a wedding date, and she even had her fitting for her 26-inch waist Zoe Fontana-designed dress. Then, quite suddenly, Audrey called off the wedding.
She knew the marriage would never work due to their highly demanding careers keeping them apart. Hepburn made a public statement about her decision: “When I get married, I want to be really married.” Audrey didn’t need a honeymoon; she needed a holiday… in Rome.
Roman Holiday
Within three years of moving from The Netherlands to London, and with no previous stage acting experience, suddenly, Audrey Hepburn was a star, wowing American audiences. Of course, Hollywood quickly took notice of the beautiful, talented young starlet and cast her alongside Gregory Peck in the delightful 1953 romance Roman Holiday.
She famously played a European princess who escapes her entourage and gets together with an American reporter for a wild night out. But Audrey Hepburn very nearly didn’t get the part.
She Nearly Lost Out on Roman Holiday
The movie’s producers had initially wanted Elizabeth Taylor for the role. But when they learned Liz was unavailable, they turned to their second choice. Director William Wyler wrote, “I can’t say at the moment whether or not we will use Miss Hepburn in Roman Holiday.”
However, when Wyler saw Audrey’s screen test, he was so impressed that he cast her. He later confessed, “She had everything I was looking for — charm, innocence, and talent. She also was very funny. She was absolutely enchanting, and we said, ‘That’s the girl!’”
Golden Reviews
New York Times writer A. H. Weiler waxed lyrical: “Although she is not precisely a newcomer to films, Audrey Hepburn, the British actress who is being starred for the first time as Princess Anne, is a slender, elfin beauty, alternately regal and childlike in her profound appreciation of newly-found, simple pleasures, and love.”
His review ended, “Although she bravely smiles her acknowledgment of the end of that affair, she remains a pitifully lonely figure facing a stuffy future.” He didn’t know it, but he could have been talking about Audrey.
Oscar Win
In 1954, the shy, waif-like actress won the Academy Award for Best Actress as Princess Anne in Roman Holiday. It would be the first of five Oscars she would win, but deep down, Audrey was unsure if she was worthy of any statuettes or anyone’s approval.
Nevertheless, she quickly became one of the most desired actresses in Hollywood. After her star turn, Hepburn could pick and choose her next role, but just as she reached the top of the pile, she didn’t realize her next film role would bring her first scandal.
Sabrina
In Billy Wilder’s 1954 rom-com Sabrina, she played a woman embroiled in a love triangle with two brothers, played by Humphrey Bogart and William Holden. Bogart was a nightmare and created what we’d call today a toxic work environment.
In need of a protector on the troubled film set and often weeping as she felt she couldn’t live up to expectations, Audrey started a secret relationship with Bill Holden. They met in her dressing room and found out-of-the-way spots to dine, picnic, dance, and kiss by candlelight.
Smitten Kittens
While Bill was 11 years her senior, Audrey said he was “the most handsome man she’d ever met” and called him her Guardian Angel. They began a secret love affair, and Holden admitted, “Audrey was the love of my life.”
Holden confessed. “Sometimes at night, I’d get a portable record player, and we’d drive out to the country to a little clearing we’d found. We’d put on ballet music. Some of our most magic moments were there.” While they were very much in love, there was one small problem… Holden was already married.
A Dark Secret
William Holden had children with his Philippine-American actress wife, Ardis, aka Brenda. But behind his golden all-American husband and father image, he was a notorious womanizer. Audrey knew his reputation for bedding his leading ladies before slinking home to his long-suffering wife.
Audrey asked Bill to divorce Brenda, and he said he would. He asked Audrey to marry him, and she accepted in a flash. For the second time, Hepburn was engaged to be married. Their tryst continued throughout Sabrina, but Bill was harboring a dark secret.
Spanner in the Works
Audrey always wanted to be a mother. She told Bill she wanted three or four children and would retire from the screen to raise them. Bill always agreed, but was he future-faking? Then, one day, as she was coming up with baby names, Bill revealed his huge secret — he couldn’t have any more children.
Later, Holden recalled Audrey standing and looking at him like a hurt, bewildered child. He explained he’d had an irreversible operation at Brenda’s request. This was a deal breaker. Audrey was heartbroken, so she broke up with him.
Self Destructive Behavior
Bill Holden was devastated when Hepburn left him but refused to move on. He already had an unhealthy relationship with adult beverages which his Sabrina co-star Bogart admonished him for when he forgot his lines. Holden soon fell into a self-destructive spiral.
The distraught Bill later admitted, “I set out around the world with the idea of [being with] a woman in every country I visited. My plan succeeded, though sometimes with difficulty.” He hoped Audrey would notice his tormented behavior and take him back into her loving arms. It didn’t work.
Meeting Mel
After treating Bill like a sulking child, Audrey attended a London cocktail party hosted by Gregory Peck. Her Roman Holiday co-star introduced her to fellow actor Mel Ferrer. He was a twice-divorced father of four who was 12 years her senior, but they hit it off anyway.
Before long, they collaborated on the medieval play Ondine, where Audrey played a water nymph. She and Mel started courting and soon became engaged to be married. But the fallout from Audrey’s fling with Holden wasn’t quite over yet.
Save Our Sabrina
The execs at Paramount Studios were worried that news of Hepburn and Holden’s affair would tarnish their latest film’s image. Desperate not to have Sabrina tarnished by scandal, they went to any length to protect their $2.2 million investment. That’s about $24 million in today’s money.
When the studio bosses discovered Hepburn and Ferrer were engaged, it was like a gift from the gods. They insisted the newly engaged couple announce their joyous news during a party… at William Holden’s house!
A Dedicated Follower of Fashion
Her relationship with William Holden wasn’t the only thing that set Audrey’s heart on fire filming Sabrina. French fashion icon Hubert de Givenchy, who founded the House of Givenchy just two years prior in 1952, was hired to create the wardrobe for Sabrina. Audrey and Hubert struck up a lifelong friendship, and we have him to thank for kicking off Audrey’s love affair with fashion.
Combining her short hair, almond-shaped eyes, infectious laugh, manners, elfin visage, and “gamine” looks with Givenchy’s exquisite, sophisticated French-chic costumes, Audrey quickly became a fashion icon.
War and Peace
In 1954, English fashion photographer Cecil Beaton wrote that Hepburn was the “public embodiment of our new feminine ideal” in Vogue magazine. That September, Audrey married Mel Ferrer in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, while preparing to star together in War and Peace (1956).
Some say that Mel Ferrer was a rebound after William Holden. Fashion magazines, newspapers, and gossip columns insisted their marriage wouldn’t last, but Hepburn claimed she and Ferrer were happy together. However, those in the know suspected otherwise.
Two Can Play at That Game
In 1957, not long after starring in War and Peace with her husband, Hepburn starred as Sister Luke in The Nun’s Story. While filming, Hepburn became very close to the film’s screenwriter, Robert Anderson, and the two are alleged to have conducted a secret love affair.
According to Edward Z. Epstein, author of the 2015 biography Audrey and Bill, Hepburn embarked on the liaison because she had heard rumors of her husband’s infidelities while he was away.
Pregnancy
Since she was a child, Audrey insisted, she was going to grow up and “have lots of babies,” who she would “go to the moon” for. But tragically, in the late 1950s, she lost two pregnancies. The first was after falling from a horse and breaking her back, filming the western Unforgiven in Mexico.
Losing her second baby when she was six months pregnant was even more traumatic. So, when she became pregnant a third time, Audrey stopped working for a year. In June 1960, she and Mel had a son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Svengali
While Audrey dedicated her life to her son, she admitted her husband was controlling and had a bad temper. Others referred to Ferrer as being her “Svengali.” Bill Holden said, “I think Audrey allows Mel to think he influences her,” while actor Alfred Lunt said, “Ferrer used Audrey’s crush on him to rule her with an iron fist.”
Years later, Sean Hepburn Ferrer said, “My father was a difficult and demanding man. She was looking for a father figure, and they were happy and lived a life of Riley for the first decade.”
Style Icon
Though she was a fashion icon in her previous films, playing Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s turned Audrey Hepburn into a global style icon. While Marilyn Monroe was another equally adored woman, the two couldn’t have been more different on-screen. Marilyn was a sensual, buxom blonde bombshell, while Hepburn was shy, nervous, wistful, and demure.
Off-screen and behind the smiles, jewelry, and public relations exercises, both women were hot messes, scarred by their father’s betrayals, abandonment, insecurity, bad romances, and personal losses.
Last Shot at Love
Bill Holden held a candle for Audrey for years and hoped she’d return to him. He finally got his shot in 1962 when they were cast together in a rom-com called Paris When it Sizzles. Audrey was heartbroken to see her former man so ravaged by his vices.
Holden was only 44, but he looked old, gaunt, and had a bulbous red nose. However, after kissing in their love scenes, Bill convinced himself he still had one last shot at winning her back. So, he came up with a cunning, Shakespearean plan.
What Light Through Yonder Window Breaks?
Fancying himself as a bit of a Romeo, one night, a worse-for-wear Holden climbed a tree outside Audrey’s dressing-room window. As she leaned out the window to investigate the noise, Holden leaned far out of the tree to kiss her. “Bill, stop that!” Audrey shouted.
At this point, Bill fell out of the tree, badly bruising himself. He knew he’d blown it with the one woman he ever truly loved. The film was a flop, and the two never acted together again.
Mr. Hepburn
Breakfast at Tiffany’s was a massive hit, but Mel Ferrer hated being Mr. Hepburn. Audrey’s mother never got on with Mel, which caused friction. The Baroness called him the “frog-faced delinquent with the spindly legs,” adding, “I believe that Audrey is getting rather sick of the neurotic side to him!”
Ella was right. Audrey had grown increasingly disillusioned with her marriage, which was damaged beyond repair by Ferrer’s many infidelities. Once again, it was time she gave Mel a dose of his own medicine.
Two for the Road
In 1966, Audrey made Two for the Road with Albert Finney. The film tells the story of a married couple reflecting on their 12-year relationship while taking a road trip from England to the French Riviera.
The storyline and time away gave Audrey the time to reflect on her own 12-year marriage. Despite Albert Finney’s reputation for sleeping with his co-stars, Audrey fell for her dashing young English co-star, and they had a fling. In 1967, Hepburn quit acting to bring up her son, Sean.
Audrey Divorces Mel Ferrer
The following year, Audrey divorced Mel and explained, “I’d tried and tried. I knew how difficult it had to be to be married to a world celebrity … second billed on the screen and in real life.”
Their son, Sean, always felt they would split, “My parents never argued in front of me. … But I was aware from quite a young age that something just wasn’t quite right, that something between them didn’t quite jive.” Later, Sean revealed that his father “spent the rest of his life regretting losing that relationship.”
Roman Honeymoon
If Mel Ferrer was a love rat, things were about to get worse for Audrey. Much worse. In 1968, she met aristocratic Italian psychiatrist Andrea Dotti on a Mediterranean cruise. Never one to learn her lesson, Audrey fell head over heels in love with the handsome neurologist. Hepburn and Dotti married in January 1969.
She longed for more children and believed Andrea Dotti would be a loving, doting father. Finally, Audrey’s dream came true when she gave birth to a second child. Their son Luca Andrea Dotti was born in February 1970.
Italian Housewife
The pair lived in Rome, and according to People magazine, Andrea expected Audrey to stay home being a traditional Italian housewife, dutiful to her husband, and dedicated to their home and children. However, while Audrey stayed home with her sons, Andrea regularly went clubbing in Rome.
Sadly, she lost another pregnancy in 1974 and fell into melancholy and despair. While Zsa Zsa Gabor famously said, “I want to be alone,” it’s understandable why a distraught Hepburn paraphrased, “I don’t want to be alone, I want to be left alone.”
Semi-Retirement
Audrey went into semi-retirement to look after Sean and Luka. As a result, she only made two movies in the 1970s and 1980s and became more isolated and depressed at home in Rome. During the 1970s, she and her husband were both unfaithful.
Desperately lonely and in need of love, admiration, and approval, Audrey struck up an affair with married actor Ben Gazzara while filming Bloodline in 1979. She knew her husband was also cheating, but she had no idea how bad things really were.
Suspicious Minds
Hepburn had her suspicions about her husband’s extra-marital affairs, but her worst fears came true when their maid revealed Dotti would often bring young women back to their home while Audrey was away.
British filmmaker Helena Coan, who directed the highly recommended 2020 documentary, Audrey, revealed, “Her second husband was photographed with 200 different women he was having affairs with, he was insanely adulterous.” The marriage eventually broke down in 1980, and they divorced in 1982.
Audrey Finally Finds Love
In 1980 a friend introduced Hepburn to Dutch actor Robert Wolders. His wife, British actress Merle Oberon had passed away the previous year, and he and Audrey struck up a loving, respectful relationship.
By the end of the decade, she called the time had spent with Wolders the happiest years of her life. When asked why they never married, Wolders said, “I felt she had two unhappy marriages; it was wonderful the way it was.” Finally, Audrey Hepburn had found true love. But her life was about to get even better.
Audrey Finally Finds Purpose
In 1988 UNICEF appointed Hepburn as a Goodwill Ambassador. After international aid had helped during her childhood, Audrey wanted to show her gratitude by paying it forward. Her first mission was to Ethiopia, which left her heartbroken and wanting to do more.
She had finally found her calling. It might have taken her until she was 60, but now she knew her purpose on the planet. Audrey Hepburn wouldn’t just look after her own children; she would look after all the children in the world.
The Pied Piper
Over the next few years, her volunteering took her to Turkey, South and Latin America, Bangladesh, Sudan, and Vietnam to help.
When she and Robert were in Bangladesh, UN photographer John Isaac said, “Often the kids would have flies all over them, but she would just go hug them. I had never seen that. Other people had a certain amount of hesitation, but she would just grab them. Children would just come up to hold her hand, touch her — she was like the Pied Piper.”
Last Days
In 1992, Hepburn was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Upon returning from Somalia to Switzerland in late September 1992, she developed abdominal pain. It was the worst news imaginable.
After undergoing treatment in America, Hepburn returned home to Switzerland to celebrate her last Christmas. After celebrating with her family, she said, “It was the most beautiful Christmas I ever had.” On the evening of January 20th, 1993, Audrey Hepburn passed away peacefully in her sleep at home.
Desire to Be Loved
Audrey Hepburn was one of the most famous, beautiful, and successful actresses of all time, but she never overcame her profound insecurities. Her deep anxieties about her looks, lack of confidence, and worries surrounding expectations and talent followed from the moment her father left.
Hepburn’s granddaughter Emma Ferrer, who was born a year after her grandmother passed away, confessed, “The best-kept secret about Audrey was that she was sad.”
State of Grace
Audrey never won her father’s approval. But luckily for us, her deep desire to be loved gave us one of the most graceful, funny, iconic actresses Hollywood has ever seen. She took her childhood pain and turned it into art and compassion.
Longtime friend and composer Michael Tilson Thomas prefers to remember Audrey like this: “She had this ability to make everyone who met her feel that she was really seeing them and recognizing what was special about them. There was a state of grace about her. Somebody who is seeing the best in a situation, seeing the best in people.”
20+ Stunning Photos & Things to Know About the Tennis Star Maria Sharapova
Hello, fellow tennis enthusiasts! Today, we will deep dive into the incredible career of Maria Sharapova, the Russian-born tennis sensation who captured hearts (and trophies) worldwide. From her stunning good looks to her fierce fighting spirit on the court, Sharapova is one of the most iconic athletes of our time. But did you know she’s also a savvy businesswoman, fashionista, and philanthropist? We’ve got 45 juicy tidbits about this multi-talented star that will have you saying “game, set, match” to anyone who tries to challenge your knowledge. So, please put on your tennis gear, and let’s get ready to serve up some serious facts about Maria Sharapova!
Who Is Maria Sharapova?
Maria Sharapova is a retired professional tennis player who hails from Russia. She won her first Grand Slam title at the age of 17 and went on to become one of the most successful players of her generation, earning five Grand Slam titles and countless other accolades throughout her career. Sharapova was known for her powerful serve, fierce competitive spirit, and striking good looks, which made her a fan favorite both on and off the court.
Despite facing setbacks and injuries throughout her career, Sharapova remained a formidable opponent until her retirement in 2020, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the greatest players in tennis history.
The Net Worth of the Tennis Sensation
Maria Sharapova’s net worth is estimated to be around $180 million, making her one of the wealthiest athletes in the world. Much of her wealth has come from her successful tennis career, which saw her win millions of dollars in prize money and endorsement deals. She has also been a sought-after endorser for companies like Nike, Porsche, and Evian.
Her net worth reflects her athletic achievements, determination, and business acumen. As one of the most iconic figures in tennis history, Sharapova’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and entrepreneurs.
Maria Sharapova Started at an Early Age
Maria Sharapova’s journey to becoming a tennis superstar began at an early age. Born in Siberia in 1987, Sharapova started playing tennis at the age of four, coached by her father, Yuri. Recognizing her talent, her family moved to the USA when she was just seven years old, in order to give her the best chance of success.
Sharapova quickly rose through the ranks of the junior tennis circuit, earning her first professional victory at just 14 years old. Her early start in the sport allowed her to hone her skills and develop the determination and discipline that served her well throughout her career.
The Year She Got Injured
In 2007, Maria Sharapova suffered a shoulder injury that would plague her for the rest of her career. Despite the injury, she continued to play through the pain for several years. Finally, in 2011, Sharapova took a year off from tennis to undergo surgery and let her injury heal.
During that time, she focused on rehabilitation and strengthening her shoulder, eventually returning to the court with renewed energy and a fierce determination to reclaim her place among the top players in the world.
Sharapova and Sasha Vujacic
Maria Sharapova was romantically involved with Sasha Vujacic, a basketball player who used to play for the Los Angeles Lakers. Their relationship reportedly began in 2009 and lasted for several years before it ended. Although the reasons for their split remain unknown, both Sharapova and Vujacic have since moved on with their respective lives and careers.
Sharapova has always kept her personal life private, but her high-profile relationship with Vujacic garnered media attention and speculation. Despite the scrutiny, she remained focused on her tennis career and continued to achieve impressive feats on the court.
The Commercial Queen
Maria Sharapova’s success on the court has been matched only by her success off the court as a highly sought-after endorser and spokesperson. Sharapova has represented a variety of top brands throughout her career, including Nike, Motorola, Lacoste, Tag Heuer, Tiffany and Co., Canon, and Land Rover.
These lucrative endorsement deals have made Sharapova one of the highest-paid female athletes in the world. Her partnership with Nike alone has resulted in multi-million dollar deals, including The Maria Sharapova Collection and an eight-year extension worth a reported $70 million. With her talent and marketability, Sharapova truly deserves the title of “Commercial Queen.”
Sharapova’s Married Life
Maria Sharapova welcomed her first son, Theodore, on July 1st, 2022. Theodore’s father is British businessman Alexander Gilkes, who proposed to Sharapova in December 2020 after two years of dating. Gilkes co-founded the online auction platform Paddle8 and attended Eton College alongside Princes William and Harry.
Sharapova has been relatively private about her personal life but has shared some details about her relationship with Gilkes on social media. The couple appears to be happy and in love, and fans have expressed excitement and well wishes for their new family.
Sharapova Moved to America for Training
Maria Sharapova moved from Russia to the USA to pursue her tennis career at just seven years old. Sharapova’s father recognized his daughter’s talent and potential in tennis and believed that she would have more opportunities to succeed in the sport by training in America.
Sharapova and her father moved to Florida, where she began training with famed tennis coach Nick Bollettieri. The move proved to be a wise choice, as Sharapova became one of the most successful tennis players ever.
Trained by Yuri Yuktin
Maria Sharapova began her tennis training at just four years old, under the guidance of her father, Yuri Sharapov. However, Sharapova’s talent and potential became more evident, so her father sought additional coaching.
Yutkin recognized Sharapova’s potential and quickly became her primary coach, helping her to develop a robust and aggressive style of play. Yutkin’s coaching proved instrumental in Sharapova’s early success in tennis.
Sharapova Conquered Wimbledon
At just 17 years old, Maria Sharapova made a historic victory at Wimbledon in 2004, becoming the third youngest woman to win the prestigious tennis tournament. Her success surprised many, as she was unseeded and had only played in three Grand Slam tournaments before Wimbledon.
Sharapova’s victory marked the start of a successful career, as she went on to win four more Grand Slam titles and numerous other tournaments. Her Wimbledon win cemented her place in tennis history and helped to launch her into international stardom.
Aggressive on the Court and Beyond
Maria Sharapova was known for her aggressive style of play on the tennis court, which earned her several Grand Slam titles. However, her aggression was not limited to her game, as she displayed it off the court too. A notable example was during the 2012 Australian Open, where Sharapova’s opponent Agnieszka Radwańska criticized her trademark grunt as annoying.
Sharapova did not take this comment lightly and retaliated in the press conference by making a snarky remark about Radwańska’s performance in the match. This incident showcased Sharapova’s fierce and competitive spirit on and off the court.
The Sharapova-Williams Feud
The Sharapova-Williams feud began when Maria Sharapova entered the tennis scene as a rising star. She overcame the then-undefeated Serena Williams in a match, but some claimed this was only possible because Serena was injured.
It led to a decade-long rivalry between the two tennis stars, with Sharapova frequently losing to Williams in subsequent matches. Despite the drama, both players remained at the top of the tennis world and were admired for their talent and competitive spirit.
Highly Paid Tennis Star
Maria Sharapova was not just a dominant force on the tennis court but was also one of the highest-paid tennis players of her time. Despite having fewer Grand Slam titles than her contemporaries like Serena Williams, she consistently earned more money in endorsement deals and sponsorships.
It can be attributed to Sharapova’s marketability and popularity among fans, which translated into lucrative deals with brands like Nike and Porsche. Sharapova’s off-court earnings and business ventures continue to make her a successful entrepreneur and a role model for young athletes.
The Most Searched Athlete on Yahoo
Maria Sharapova was one of her generation’s most successful tennis players and one of the most searched athletes on the internet during her peak years. In 2004-2005, Sharapova topped Yahoo’s list of most searched athletes.
Her stunning looks, aggressive playing style, and marketable personality made her an instant fan favorite, and her success on the court only added to her popularity. Sharapova’s influence on the sport and global appeal cemented her status as one of the most recognizable names in tennis history.
The Initial Losses
Maria Sharapova, the former world No. 1 tennis player, faced initial setbacks in her debut matches at the French Open and the Australian Open. Sharapova struggled to adapt to the French Open clay surface and Australia’s extreme heat.
However, she used these early losses as a learning experience and became a five-time Grand Slam champion. Her dedication and hard work enabled her to overcome early disappointments and succeed in her career.
The Arrogant Victim
Maria Sharapova’s autobiography Unstoppable: My Life So Far garnered attention for how it portrayed Serena Williams. Sharapova described Williams as physically intimidating, with a muscular build that belied her TV appearance.
Sharapova also claimed their relationship was irreparable and took credit for Williams’ success in the sport. Despite the controversy, Sharapova’s autobiography offered a glimpse into the life of a successful tennis player and entrepreneur and the intense rivalries and pressure that comes with the sport.
An Avid Reader
Maria Sharapova is a successful athlete, entrepreneur, and avid reader. She’s been known to carry books on tour and has even credited reading with helping her improve her mental game on the tennis court. Sharapova has also recommended books to her fans on social media and has spoken about her love for classic literature.
She even attended Harvard Business School’s Executive Education Program, where she studied negotiation and innovation. Sharapova’s dedication to learning and personal growth has contributed to her success on and off the court.
Born in Nyagan, Russia
Maria Sharapova was born in Nyagan, a small town in Russia, on April 19th, 1987. Her parents, Yuri and Yelena, were both athletic, with Yuri working as a tennis coach and Yelena working as a swimmer. Sharapova began playing tennis at four years old and showed promise from a young age.
When she was six years old, her family moved to Sochi, where she began training with her father. By the time she was a teenager, Sharapova had become a rising star in the world of tennis, eventually winning multiple Grand Slam titles and becoming one of the sport’s most recognizable names.
A Businesswoman
Maria Sharapova is a former professional tennis player and a successful businesswoman. Along with Candy veteran Jeff Rubin, she founded a candy line called Sugarpova. This sweet venture was launched in 2012 and has become a hit among candy lovers worldwide.
Sugarpova offers a variety of flavors in gummy candies, chocolates, and even premium gift sets. Sharapova’s involvement in the brand is not just limited to a name; she’s played an active role in developing flavors and packaging. With her business acumen, Sharapova has shown that she’s a force to be reckoned with beyond the tennis court.
First Place
In 2005, Maria Sharapova achieved a significant milestone in her tennis career by becoming the world’s No. 1 player. She had already won two Grand Slam titles – the 2004 Wimbledon and the 2005 US Open – before reaching the top of the WTA rankings.
Sharapova’s aggressive playing style, powerful serve, and mental toughness helped her win multiple titles that year, including the 2005 Australian Open. She became the first Russian woman to hold the world’s No. 1 ranking, cementing her status as one of the greatest players in tennis history.
An Art and Music Lover
Maria Sharapova is a multi-talented individual interested in the arts and music. In her free time, the former tennis star often attends concerts and visits art galleries. She has a deep appreciation for classical music and has even played the piano since childhood.
Sharapova also loves modern art, citing her admiration for artists such as Marc Chagall and Salvador Dali. Her interest in the arts reflects her creative side, and she continues to explore new forms of expression beyond the tennis court.
A Spy Fiction Fan
Maria Sharapova is a fan of spy fiction and detective stories, with a particular affinity for the classic works of Arthur Conan Doyle. She’s expressed her love for the original Sherlock Holmes novels, which she enjoys reading in her spare time.
While she may appreciate spy films and TV series, her passion for the genre is primarily based on literature. Sharapova’s fascination with the genre speaks to her love for intrigue and mystery, and she continues to explore the works of other notable authors in the field.
A Fan of the Men’s Circuit
Maria Sharapova has often expressed her fondness for watching men’s circuit matches. She has stated that she enjoys the power and speed displayed by male players and appreciates the aggressive and physical nature of the men’s game.
Sharapova has also noted that she finds studying male players’ techniques and strategies helpful, which she can incorporate into her own game. Sharapova’s career is a testimony to that, as she won multiple Grand Slam titles and was ranked No. 1 in the world.
Calm on the Court
Maria Sharapova is known for her intense competitiveness on the tennis court, but she’s always been a calm and composed player. Unlike many of her peers, Sharapova doesn’t believe in throwing tantrums or breaking tennis rackets, even when things don’t go her way.
Instead, she channels her emotions into her game, using her mental toughness and focus on coming back from behind and winning matches. Sharapova’s sportsmanship and professionalism have earned her the respect of her fans and fellow players, making her one of the most admired athletes out there.
Sharapova’s Mentor, Mary Joe Fernandez
Maria Sharapova has attributed much of her success to her mentor, Mary Joe Fernandez. Fernandez played an instrumental role in guiding Sharapova during her early career, providing her with advice, motivation, and support.
Fernandez’s vast experience as a top-ranked player, and her success in the sport, undoubtedly positively impacted Sharapova’s development. Sharapova has often spoken fondly of Fernandez and her impact on her career.
Sharapova’s Idol in Tennis, Monica Seles
Maria Sharapova has often cited Monica Seles as her idol in tennis. Seles, a former world No. 1 player, was known for her aggressive playing style and ability to hit the ball with incredible power and precision. Sharapova has stated that she was inspired by Seles’ fearlessness on the court and her willingness to take risks.
Sharapova has also praised Seles’ mental toughness and ability to overcome adversity, including her recovery from a career-threatening injury. Seles’ legacy as a tennis icon has undoubtedly influenced Sharapova’s approach to the sport and her success on tour.
Sharapova Loves to Take an Afternoon Nap
Maria Sharapova has spoken about her habit of taking afternoon naps as part of her daily routine. She’s noted that napping helps her recharge and rejuvenate her body, allowing her to perform at her best during training and matches.
Sharapova has acknowledged the importance of rest and recovery in maintaining her physical and mental health and has made napping a regular part of her schedule. While some may view napping as a luxury, Sharapova sees it as a necessity for maintaining her high level of performance and achieving her goals in tennis and in life.
The Torch Bearer for the Winter Olympics
Maria Sharapova was the first torchbearer at the lighting ceremony of the Winter Olympics held in Sochi, Russia, in 2014. The ceremony is a significant event, marking the start of the games. Sharapova was selected to carry the torch in recognition of her tennis achievements and contributions to Russian sports.
With the world watching, Sharapova ran through the streets with the Olympic torch, passing it on to other athletes, symbolizing the unity and spirit of the games. It was a proud moment for her and her country.
A Fan of London
Maria Sharapova has repeatedly expressed her love for London, as both a tourist and a tennis player. Sharapova has competed in the prestigious Wimbledon tournament numerous times – which is held near London – and has always spoken fondly of the city’s rich history, culture, and charm.
She’s noted that she enjoys exploring the city’s many museums, parks, and restaurants and has cited London as one of her favorite cities worldwide. Sharapova’s appreciation for London reflects her curiosity, open-mindedness, and appreciation for new experiences, both on and off the tennis court.
Martina Navratilova’s Influence on Sharapova
Martina Navratilova played an instrumental role in recognizing Maria Sharapova’s talent as a young player. At age six, Sharapova attended a tennis clinic in Moscow that Navratilova was running. The tennis legend was immediately struck by Sharapova’s natural ability and advised her father that she should be enrolled at the IMG Academy in Florida. Sharapova ultimately was enrolled three years later under a full scholarship.
Navratilova’s early recognition of Sharapova’s potential was crucial to her development as a tennis player. It helped set her on the path to becoming one of the greatest players in the sport. Sharapova has often expressed gratitude to Navratilova for her encouragement and support.
Sharapova’s Career Grand Slam
Maria Sharapova’s win at the 2012 French Open was a historic moment for her career. It made her only the 10th woman in tennis history to achieve a Career Grand Slam, which involves winning all four major tennis tournaments: the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open.
Sharapova’s victory at the French Open was significant, as it was the only Grand Slam tournament she had yet to win. With her achievement, Sharapova cemented her place in tennis history as one of the sport’s most accomplished and successful players.
A UN Goodwill Ambassador
In 2007, Maria Sharapova was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). As a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, Sharapova has traveled to many countries to raise awareness of poverty, inequality, and sustainable development issues.
She’s also advocated for gender equality and women’s empowerment. Sharapova has often spoken about the importance of using her platform and influence to impact the world positively.
Sharapova’s Dream of Becoming a Bond Girl
Maria Sharapova has long dreamed of becoming a Bond Girl since she first saw James Bond films as a child. In several recent interviews, Sharapova has expressed her desire to play a Bond Girl in a future film. She’s even joked that her professional tennis experience would be helpful in any action scenes.
Despite her aspirations, Sharapova has yet to make her Bond Girl debut on the big screen. Nevertheless, her love for the iconic spy franchise, and her desire to be a part of it, remain strong.
The Richest Female Athlete of 2015
In 2015, Forbes magazine named Maria Sharapova the world’s highest-paid female athlete. With over $29 million in earnings that year, Sharapova surpassed her peers in on-court winnings and off-court endorsements.
Sharapova’s success on and off the court has made her a role model for many young athletes. Her entrepreneurial spirit and business savvy have earned her respect and admiration from fans and colleagues alike.
The First Russian to Win Wimbledon
Maria Sharapova’s win at Wimbledon in 2004 was significant because it was her first Grand Slam title, and she became the first Russian woman to win the prestigious tournament. This achievement was an important milestone in Russian tennis history and helped to cement Sharapova’s status as a national hero in her home country.
Her victory at Wimbledon paved the way for a new generation of Russian tennis players, who have since followed in her footsteps and continued to make their mark on the sport at the highest levels.
One of the Tallest Female Tennis Players
Maria Sharapova is known for her height, which sets her apart from many female tennis players. Standing at 6’2″, Sharapova is one of the tallest female tennis players to ever compete professionally.
Her height gives her a significant advantage on the court, allowing her to serve and hit the ball with greater power and reach than many of her opponents. Sharapova has used her height throughout her career, and it’s helped her become one of the most dominant players in women’s tennis history.
The Nike Contract
Maria Sharapova signed her first Nike contract when she was just 11 years old. In a move that would prove to be both bold and prophetic, the sportswear giant saw something special in the young tennis prodigy and decided to invest in her early on.
The deal reportedly involved a five-year agreement worth $500,000 and included a clause that promised additional funding if Sharapova achieved certain performance milestones.
The Youngest Girl to Reach the Finals of the Junior Australian Open
In 2002, Maria Sharapova made history by becoming the youngest girl to reach the finals of the Junior Australian Open at age 14. Despite losing in the final to her compatriot, Ksenia Milevskaya, Sharapova’s performance marked her as a rising star in tennis.
Her success at the junior level would be the beginning of a remarkable career, which would see her win five Grand Slam singles titles and become one of the greatest female tennis players of all time.
Maria’s Name Decoded
Maria Sharapova’s last name is the feminine version of her father’s last name, Yuri Sharapov. In Russian, last names change depending on gender, with the masculine form ending in ‘ov’ and the feminine form ending in ‘ova.’
While the origins of her last name may be relatively commonplace, Sharapova’s career and legacy in tennis have been anything but ordinary, and her name has become synonymous with talent, grace, and success.
Sharapova and Aleksandr Kafelnikov
Maria Sharapova’s father and Aleksandr Kafelnikov’s son Yevgeny was the first Russian to be ranked No. 1 in the world in the game of tennis. At the age of four, Sharapova got a tennis racquet from Aleksandr and began her passion for the game.
Sharapova’s stint in the sport was rather long and consistent, and Kafelnikov played a significant role in this. Sharapova won multiple titles and made her name in the history of the sport.
Sharapova Won Championships at Age 13
At the age of 13, Sharapova made a mark in tennis by winning the Eddie Herr International Junior Tennis Championships in the girls’ 16 division, in November 2000. This victory showcased her immense talent and potential as a young player.
Sharapova’s win at this prestigious tournament established her as a rising star in the tennis world and set the stage for her future successes. Her victory at such a young age was a testament to her determination and passion for the sport, and a sign of the incredible career to come.
Sharapova Turned Pro at Age 14
In 2001, Maria Sharapova turned pro at 14 years old, becoming the youngest female tennis player in over a decade. Despite her young age, Sharapova quickly established herself as a formidable player with her powerful serves and fierce competitiveness.
Her breakthrough came in 2004 when she won her first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon. This victory not only cemented her position as one of the top players in the game but also marked the beginning of a long and successful career.
Sharapova’s Retirement
In February 2020, Maria Sharapova announced her retirement from professional tennis at the age of 32. She cited persistent injuries as the reason behind her decision to retire. Sharapova, who turned pro at age 14, reached the peak of her career in 2005 when she became No.1 in the world.
Throughout her career, Sharapova won 36 WTA titles and represented Russia in three Olympic Games. She’s known for her powerful serve, fierce competitiveness, and elegant style on and off the court. Her retirement marked the end of an era in women’s tennis.
The Forbes Celebrity 100 List
From 2005 to 2011, Maria Sharapova was listed in the Forbes Celebrity 100, which ranks the world’s highest-paid celebrities. Sharapova’s lucrative endorsements with major brands like Nike, Porsche, and Evian, combined with her on-court success, contributed to her significant earnings.
In 2008, Sharapova was the highest-paid female athlete in the world, and she remained in the top 10 for several years. Her strong presence in the Forbes Celebrity 100 list cemented her status as one of the world’s most recognizable and marketable athletes.
Sharapova’s Autobiography
Maria Sharapova’s autobiography, titled Unstoppable: My Life So Far, was released on September 12th, 2017, and published by Sarah Crichton Books. In the book, Sharapova tells the story of her life from her childhood in Russia to her rise to fame as a tennis player, as well as her experiences and personal struggles both on and off the court.
She discusses her injuries and her ultimate retirement from tennis. The book provided a unique insight into the life of one of the most successful female tennis players in history and was well-received by both fans and critics.
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