Sunday with Maria Sharapova: ‘If I Need Gardening Help, My Mother Takes Over’
Maria Sharapova, the iconic tennis champion and former World No. 1, is known for her thunderous serves, razor-sharp focus, and relentless pursuit of greatness on the court. But away from the flashing cameras and roaring stadiums, she leads a life that is as grounded and reflective as her game was intense. On a leisurely Sunday, Maria opens up about how she spends her downtime, her approach to staying active post-retirement, and the surprising role her mother plays in her life — as her go-to gardening expert.
A Slow Start to the Day
For Sharapova, Sundays are about finding balance. After years of a grueling schedule filled with early wake-up calls, practice sessions, and jet-setting across the globe, she cherishes the luxury of a slow morning.
“My Sundays start late — it’s my day to sleep in,” Maria shares, her voice exuding the calm of someone who’s learned to savor life’s quieter moments. “I like waking up naturally, without an alarm clock. Breakfast is usually simple but indulgent. A great coffee, maybe an avocado toast or a croissant, and I’ll take my time with it.”
Her mornings often involve catching up on reading or journaling. “It helps me organize my thoughts and stay present. I used to write about my matches or strategies, but now it’s about mindfulness and gratitude.”
Active Recovery: Moving with Purpose
Though her days of competitive tennis are behind her, Sharapova hasn’t left physical activity by the wayside. Fitness remains a cornerstone of her lifestyle, albeit with a different focus.
“I don’t train for hours like I used to, but staying active is non-negotiable,” Maria explains. “Sundays are perfect for yoga or a long hike. I love being outdoors and connecting with nature. It’s not just for the body but for the soul.”
Her workouts are often followed by a dip in the pool or a recovery session involving stretching and breathwork. “It’s about finding movement that feels good rather than chasing performance.”
Rediscovering Passions Beyond Tennis
For someone who dominated the tennis world for over a decade, stepping away from the sport could have left a void. Instead, Maria embraced retirement as an opportunity to explore new passions.
“I’ve discovered how much I love gardening,” she says with a laugh. “It started as a way to unwind, but I’ve developed a genuine interest in growing plants and flowers. My mother is the real expert, though. Whenever I need help or advice, she’s the one I turn to.”
Sharapova credits her mother, Yelena, with instilling a love of nature in her. “She has such a green thumb. Watching her work with plants is almost meditative. Now, I’m learning to appreciate the patience it requires. It’s a lot like tennis in that sense — you have to nurture it and give it time.”
Her gardening hobby has grown beyond the confines of her backyard. Sharapova has also developed an interest in sustainable living and hopes to inspire others to adopt greener practices.
Culinary Adventures
Food plays a central role in Sharapova’s Sundays. Known for her disciplined approach to nutrition during her playing days, she now enjoys experimenting in the kitchen.
“I love cooking, especially on Sundays when there’s no rush,” Maria says. “I’ll often try new recipes or recreate dishes from my travels. Italian food is my weakness, but I balance it out with fresh, seasonal ingredients.”
Sharapova’s culinary experiments often involve friends and family. “There’s something so special about sharing a meal you’ve prepared. It’s my way of bringing people together.”
Time for Creativity and Business
Maria’s entrepreneurial ventures are well-documented, most notably her premium candy brand, Sugarpova. Though Sundays are primarily for relaxation, she occasionally carves out time for brainstorming or creative pursuits.
“Sugarpova is my baby, and I’m always thinking about ways to grow the brand,” she reveals. “Sundays are great for jotting down ideas or testing new flavors. But I keep it light — it’s not a workday.”
Maria also uses this time to engage with fans on social media or plan upcoming collaborations. “I want to create things that bring joy, whether it’s through my business or other creative projects.”
Family, Friends, and Reflection
Sharapova values the time she spends with loved ones, especially on Sundays. Her close-knit circle includes her fiancé, Alexander Gilkes, and their family dog, who often joins them for leisurely walks.
“Weekdays can be hectic, so Sundays are for catching up with the people I care about,” she says. “We might have a family lunch, play board games, or just sit around chatting. It’s simple but meaningful.”
Evenings are reserved for winding down. Maria enjoys watching classic films, flipping through art books, or listening to music. “I’m a big fan of jazz and classical music. It sets the tone for a peaceful night.”
A Legacy Beyond Tennis
Reflecting on her journey, Maria Sharapova speaks with the wisdom of someone who has navigated both triumphs and setbacks with grace. Her Sundays, filled with intentionality and joy, are a testament to the balance she has achieved.
“Tennis will always be a part of me, but it’s not all of me,” she says. “I’m grateful for everything the sport gave me, but I’m also excited about this next chapter. Life is about growth, and I’m embracing every step of it.”
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