‘As dedicated as someone can be’ – How the tennis world reacted to Maria Sharapova retirement
Maria Sharapova brought the curtain down on a remarkable, future Hall of Fame career on Wednesday prompting a flurry of tributes from fellow star names in tennis.
Here, we share the best of what is being said about the Russian, highlighting the inarguable legacy she leaves behind her.
Stefanos Tsitsipas: “I come from a Russian background. For me, I kind of understand the way she approached tennis, the attitude, all of that…
“I think many people are jealous of the career that she had.”
Novak Djokovic: “I would like everyone to give her a big round of applause for everything she has done in her career,” Djokovic said on court.
“She deserves it, definitely. She’s a great fighter. As dedicated as someone can really be in our sport.
“The will power and the willingness to overcome all of the obstacles she had especially in the last five or six years with injuries, surgeries and trying to fight back and come back to the court and play on her desired level is truly inspirational to see what a mind of the champions she has.
“I’m sorry that it had to end with an injury but at the same time she had a fantastic career, she can be proud of herself.”
Petra Kvitova: “It was a pleasure to share the court with you, Maria Sharapova.
“We always had great battles when we played and I have so much respect for your hard work and the way you always fight for everything.
“You have achieved a lot in your life so far and I know this is just the start.”
Martina Navratilova: “Congratulations Maria for a wonderful career, which includes a career Grand Slam- and bringing a lot of new fans to the sport we love.
“Enjoy your life after tennis- I wouldn’t dare call it retirement!”
Monica Puig: “Congrats on a stellar career Maria Sharapova.
“Thank you for all that you have done for our sport, but most of all, thank you for being there for me in the darkest of moments in Puerto Rico.
“You showed your simplicity, sincerity, wonderful personality and humility through it all.”
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