“Have to Be Prepared to Pivot”: Maria Sharapova Details the Importance of Routines for Tennis Players

Over the years, former world no. 1 Maria Sharapova has established herself as a true carrier of the sport. Now that she’s retired, there certainly is a void left in tennis. Although the Russian didn’t win a Slam in recent years, her mark on tennis shall remain. 

During her spell as a player, Sharapova suffered from constant shoulder injuries for well over a decade. She still managed to win a Grand Slam on all three different surfaces (hard, clay, grass), covering all the four majors. Maria also won the WTA Finals back in 2004. 

Recently, the Russian explained the importance of following a routine towards the build-up to matches. Each individual is different, and there are various ways that help players, which vary with each person. Some players prefer silence, while some prefer listening to music to help ease the nerves. 

Maria Sharapova: Have to establish that routine

Sharapova laid emphasis on this issue and said, “You have to get to that comfort level and you have to establish that routine. It doesn’t come naturally. And as you have different team members along with your career. I competed for so many years. I have had different coaches and everyone has different inputs in routines and better preparation and better recovery.”

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However, Sharapova also said that things do not remain constant and changes are inevitable. It’s also important to consider the opinion of experts on the matter. She said, “I think you adjust to the circumstances. I always think just because some things worked for a few years in our life and career doesn’t mean it’ll continuously work in the future… It’s also a sport where you have to be prepared to pivot… You have to be ready to spend the evening talking to the team and pivot in making better decisions for yourself.”

After her loss to Donna Vekic at this year’s Australian Open, Maria Sharapova decided to ‘call it a day’. Just a week ago, she got engaged to a British businessman and art dealer Alexander Gilkes.