It stands as one of the most unforgettable victories in the storied history of Wimbledon.
And on July 3rd, it will be exactly 20 years since Maria Sharapova clinched the championship at SW19, stunning the tennis world with her sensational performance at the All England Club.
Now, two decades later, we reflect on an extraordinary journey that propelled Sharapova towards becoming an icon.
A Surprising Triumph
Just weeks before Wimbledon, a 17-year-old Sharapova made it to the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time in her career at the French Open, only to be defeated by Paola Suarez.
She then followed up with her first-ever grass-court title at the Birmingham Classic, setting the stage for her entry into SW19 as the 13th seed.
Despite her impressive form, Sharapova was not considered a major contender the title at Wimbledon. The favorite was Serena Williams, the world No.1 and two-time defending champion, with former winners Venus Williams and Lindsay Davenport also in the mix.
Sharapova sailed through her initial three matches without dropping a set, Yulia Beygelzimer, Anne Keothavong, and Daniela Hantuchova to secure her spot in the second week.
Originally projected to face her compatriot and second seed Anastasia Myskina in the fourth round, Sharapova’s path became slightly easier when the French Open champion was eliminated in the third round.
And she fully capitalized on the opportunity, defeating Myskina conqueror, 31st seed Amy Frazier, in straight sets to advance to the quarter-finals.
For the first time, the teenager found herself facing pressure in the quarter-finals, trailing behind 11th seed and the more experienced Ai Sugiyama by one set.
However, Sharapova rallied and secured a 5-7, 7-5, 6-1 victory, and then fought back to defeat fifth seed Davenport 2-6, 7-6(5), 6-1, earning a spot in the final – where she would face Serena.
Not many believed in her chances against Serena, who had already achieved a Career Grand Slam by this point, but Sharapova only dropped one game in a dominant first set.
And just when it seemed like the momentum was shifting against her, she came from behind to win the second set 6-4, sealing a 6-1, 6-4 victory and stunning the tennis world by claiming the Venus Rosewater Dish.
Only Lottie Dodd and Martina Hingis had won the title at a younger age than Sharapova, and this victory propelled her to the pinnacle the tennis world, solidifying her status as a sporting icon.
Prior to her return to SW19, Maria Sharapova also discussed how her relationship with Serena Williams has evolved over time. She mentioned that they now have the opportunity to reminisce about the past and even share a laugh about the intense moments in their rivalry. The Russian athlete also commended Williams for her role as a mother to two children and her success as a businesswoman. Sharapova stated: “Now we have the chance to look back on our past and find amusement in it. It’s great to see Serena thriving as a mother to two kids and excelling in her business endeavors. We enjoy our conversations and have a lot of fun exchanging messages.”
In their careers, Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams have faced other 22 times, with Serena Williams dominating with a commanding 20-2 lead. Their most recent encounter took place in the first round of the 2019 US Open, where Williams secured a convincing 6-1, 6-1 victory.
