Maria Sharapova Reveals Why She Chose to Become an Entrepreneur at a Very Young Age

The biggest reason behind the former Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova‘s success is her strong-willed character. With 5 major titles and being the only Russian ever to win a career Grand Slam, Maria carried an incomparable competitors’ temperament. However, her drive didn’t contain only in tennis as the Russian also took on entrepreneurship at a very young age.

The 33-year-old Russian founded Sugarpova in 2013 – a guilt-free candy company. Explaining her transition from athlete to entrepreneur, the 36 WTA titles winner responded subtly. Maria said, “As I got better and became more successful (in tennis), I realized that there’s so much more than being an athlete.”

“Wanted to make more decisions”: Maria Sharapova

Considering the magnitude of tennis and it being an individual competition, the players get the reward. Sharapova also benefitted well as she gained a tremendous following from her game. She also remained the highest-paid female athlete for 11 straight years, according to Forbes.

“The sport itself brought me so many opportunities, connections, networks, meetings, and brands that I got to be a part of and associated with,” the Russian said. Being a World No. 1 for 21 weeks, she realized that she could achieve more than she received. Sharapova added, “I just wanted to make so many more decisions than what was brought to me from these partnerships that I had.”

The Russian, even outside tennis, desired to stay ahead in the game. For that, she needed control and she needed to see her own vision brought into effect. Being a success in tennis from a young age gave her enough boost to make it happen.

“I make the decisions every single day”: Sharapova

From a successful career spanning over almost two decades, Maria joined the greats just as a teenager. She gained the top rank of the WTA Rankings at the tender age of 18. Additionally, the Russian didn’t settle for a small part outside tennis.

“I said I would love to own something a 100%,” said Sharapova. She included, “Where I create my own team, I bring in the right resources, the finances and I make the decisions every single day.”

For many, excelling at one thing can be a lifelong dream; Maria got the best of both worlds. Further ahead, the Russian also plans to extend her company to other business verticals. All in all, Sharapova is a great inspiration for young minds on and off the court.

Also Read: “Very Different World”: Maria Sharapova Lifts the Lid on Life Post Retirement