Although Maria Sharapova doesn’t see herself as a fashion icon on the court, there’s no doubting she’s a leader when it comes to style and elegance, with both the media and tennis fans often straining to get a glimpse of the Russian’s new outfit each summer.
2010 will be no different, with the former world No.1 sporting jewellery by Tiffany & Co. during all Grand Slam tournaments.
Never one to disappoint, Sharapova’s choice of earrings for Australian Open 2010 highlight her radiance both on and off the court – drops of polished yellow quartz in 18 karat yellow gold designed by the celebrated Paloma Picasso.
The three-time major champion is returning to Melbourne Park for the first time since her 2008 triumph, and says she’s thrilled to be back in Australia, with the warm weather one of the inspirations for her stunning on-court accessories.
“Because it’s summer time, this is usually when I like to play around with different colours,” she told australianopen.com.
“I like the fact that every Grand Slam we play around with different types of earrings depending on what I’m wearing, and we thought because I’m in Australia with the warm weather I didn’t want to do have much ‘bling’.
“We did a little bit of a colour, and Paloma Picasso is really good with that – she really creates gold with these amazing colours.”
A lucrative commodity wherever she goes, the world No.14 has long attracted attention more befitting a supermodel than a tennis player.
Despite this, the down-to-earth Sharapova laughs off the suggestion that she’s idolised as a style and fashion idol.
“I don’t see myself as an icon, but when people acknowledge me as that it’s very flattering and I thank them; ultimately I don’t take it too seriously.
“I’m not so much interested in jewellery designing, but I have a lot of other things I’m doing. As far as wearing the jewellery on court it’s great!”
Amid the fawning over Sharapova’s stylish accessories and on-court outfits, it’s easy to forget the formidable record she has already compiled at just 22 years of age.
The holder of 20 titles on the WTA Tour and at one stage the world No.1 ranking, the Russian boasts one of the most powerful games in women’s tennis – and a steely resolve to go with it.
Now well and truly acclimatised to the Melbourne weather, Sharapova says getting down to business is her main priority – if only to wipe away the disappointment of missing Australian Open 2009.
“Unfortunately I wasn’t in Melbourne last year and missed being here. To be the defending champion coming in and having to miss the tournament, it’s a bit sad.
“But this is a new year; I’m stronger and healthier and really looking forward to it.”
If the Tiffany & Co. earrings are anything to go by, Sharapova will be dazzling her opponents both on and off the court.
http://www.australianopen.com/en_AU/news/articles/2010-01-13/201001131263378887562.html?fpos=r5