Tennis has always been Maria Sharapova’s first love, but after becoming a mother, things have changed. Earlier this year, Maria Sharapova entered a new phase in her life when she gave birth to her first child, Theodore. The five-time Grand Champion recently discussed the virtues she wishes to instill in her firstborn in an interview.

After a successful career, the 35-year-old tennis player put her racket away in 2020. The Russian tennis player is enjoying her time as a mother after making a name for herself in the sport. The former world number one and her fiancé Alexander Gilkes welcomed their first son in July.

The qualities Maria Sharapova wants to instill in her newborn

The former Russian tennis star, who has experienced a lot of influence and stardom during her career, was asked about the advice she has for her son in a recent interview. 

She said, “I do think that being yourself is ultimately the best advice. I’ve tried to carry that with me; I’ve tried to never pretend to be someone that I’m not. I think authenticity—particularly in today’s society where we are bombarded by so many influences—is key.” According to the five-time Grand Slam champion, there are different influences that can shift a person’s mindset. 

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Sharapova wants her son to be aware of who he is as a person and what he likes about himself and to put more emphasis on those qualities than on what others might think. She added, “And continue to be curious. I think that’s so important in life. Never be the smartest one in the room, always give yourself room to grow. Those two things are the biggest.” 

Being a successful player and making a reputation for oneself in the tennis world isn’t simple. However, Sharapova did just that when she won the Wimbledon Championships in 2004. Over the course of her career, she has won 5 Grand Slam singles titles.

What is Sharapova doing these days?

The former tennis player from Russia now handles the Sugarpova brand and oversees the Maria Sharapova Foundation. Nevertheless, she is relishing her new role as her son’s mother.

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The former Russian star made her move to invest in the confectionery industry when she founded her company, Sugarpova, in 2012. The company is worth over $195 million at present. Apart from managing her business ventures, she also frequently attends fashion shows and was recently spotted at the US Open, where she had a brief stint as a commentator.

What do you think about Sharapova’s off-court success since her retirement? Can you think of other WTA stars who have seamlessly transitioned into a successful career post retirement?