Maria Sharapova

Maria Yuryevna Sharapova (Russian: ?????? ???????? ?????????; born April 19, 1987) is a Russian professional tennis player, and currently World No. 1 as of September 12, 2005. Her parents are originally from Gomel, Belarus, but moved to Russia in 1986 in the aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear accident. Sharapova was born in Nyagan, Russia, the following year.

Awards

2003

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• WTA Newcomer of the Year

2004

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• WTA Player of the Year
• WTA Most Improved Player of the Year
• WTA Player Service

2005

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• ESPY Best Female Tennis Player