Russian tennis legend Maria Sharapova always found herself to be at the center of all attention throughout her playing career. Being the most popular women’s tennis player along with rival Serena Williams during her heydays, the spotlight never seemed to leave her back. But despite having a huge off-court persona full of glamor and glitz, she maintained her position as a top player, winning 5 grand slam titles. Speaking about Sharapova, fellow Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova expressed her admiration for the great champion at the ongoing French Open.

Pavlyuchenkova feels inspired by the achievements of compatriot Maria Sharapova

During her post-match press conference after her first-round match at Roland Garros, Pavlyuchenkova was asked about her views on the success of her compatriot Maria Sharapova at the French Open. The Russian star was quick to admit how she was inspired by Sharapova’s skills and ability to handle pressure and win titles.

She said, “Well, first of all, Maria Sharapova, she’s Maria Sharapova. For me it’s just like in tennis or every sport, there are some special athletes who you have, and they will never be replaced or copied or, you know. So she’s one of them for me for sure. I think for me, I always admired. I was impressed by her fighting spirit and character… Dealing with – I still believe all the pressure that she had and the attention, that was amazing.”

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“It Took Years for Me to Get Comfortable With Social Media’ – Tennis Icon Maria Sharapova Says She Wants to Create More Awareness for Women

The 2021 French Open finalist secured a convincing 6-2, 6-2 victory over Czech Linda Fruhvirtova in her first-round bout at Roland Garros. She will be facing fellow Russian and 15th seed Liudmila Samsonova next.

Sharapova evolved her game to become a clay court genius

The 5-time grand slam champion dreaded playing on clay at the early stages of her career. Sharapova’s powerful and aggressive shotmaking was tailor-made for the hard and grass courts, as she lacked a swift and consistent game which favored clay. But Sharapova’s diligent work, determination and belief helped her crack that elusive formula to be successful on clay. She reached 3 consecutive Roland Garros finals from 2012 to 2014, winning twice, making it her most successful grand slam. She won the other 3 majors once each in her career, thereby becoming one of only 10 women ever to complete the career grand slam. Sharapova finished her career with an impressive 145-33 win-loss record on clay courts, her best percentage-wise among all courts.

Can Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova take a page out of Sharapova’s book and emulate her Roland Garros heroics? We will find out in 2 weeks.

WATCH THIS STORY: Despite $500,000,000 Earnings Together, Serena Williams And Maria Sharapova’s Unwavering Commitment To Tennis Rises To The Fore As Emma Raducanu Gets Real Advice