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Few names in tennis command the same mix of admiration and intrigue as Maria Sharapova. The five-time Grand Slam champion may have retired in 2020, but her presence continues to loom large over the sport—and over the glamorous lifestyle she built alongside it. In an exclusive conversation, Sharapova opened up about why the U.S. Open still holds a special place in her heart, her much-scrutinized friendship with Serena Williams, and, yes, even her hotel preferences when traveling the globe.
Sharapova’s love affair with the U.S. Open is as much about the energy as it is the tennis. “There’s something about New York—its chaos, its electricity—that translates onto the court,” she revealed. “It’s loud, it’s intense, and that atmosphere pushed me to elevate my game every time I played there.” For a player who thrived under pressure, Flushing Meadows was the perfect stage.
Then there’s the Serena connection. Their rivalry was one of the most compelling storylines in modern tennis, but Sharapova insists their bond runs deeper than the headlines. “Serena and I shared moments that the public never saw,” she explained. “We both understood the sacrifices it took to reach the top, and that created a mutual respect. Friendship in tennis isn’t always simple, but ours has been very real in its own way.”
And while Sharapova might have been laser-focused during her career, she admits she’s always had a soft spot for a great hotel. From chic boutique stays in New York to serene escapes in California, she says choosing the right place to unwind was essential to keeping her balanced during long stretches on tour. “Hotels became my second home. Finding ones that gave me peace, comfort, and sometimes even inspiration—it mattered more than people realize.”
Even in retirement, Sharapova continues to blend the competitive edge of a champion with the effortless glamour of a global icon. Whether reminiscing about the roars of Arthur Ashe Stadium, reflecting on her bond with Serena, or sharing her love of stylish retreats, she reminds fans why she was—and remains—so captivating.
The U.S. Open may no longer feature Sharapova on its entry list, but her connection to the event, the city, and its energy endures. And if there’s one thing Maria has proven, it’s that her story doesn’t end with tennis—it only gets more interesting.
Musa
John Owolabi
