In the history of women's tennis, rare pairs that attract a lot of attention and create a wave of intense debate like between Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova.
Although in terms of expertise, Serena Williams is almost absolute, but what revolves around this match – from personality, images, to personal statements – has made this one of the most symbolic feuds of the world sport.
Everything began in 2004 when Maria Sharapova, when it was only 17 years old, shocked with the victory over Serena in the Wimbledon final, won the first Grand Slam in his career. That victory was considered a historic turning point, marking the rise of a young talent and opening up hope for a top -notch confrontation that lasted for many years.
However, the reality goes in a different direction. As of the last confrontation at the US Open 2019, Serena won Sharapova up to 20 of 22 meetings. For more than 15 years, Sharapova has not once passed Serena in any Grand Slam. This is a harsh result of overshadowing all hope for a fair competition.
Although not balanced in terms of results, the relationship between them is always “hot” by tensions in the yard. In 2017, in the “Unstoppable” autobiography, Sharapova revealed that she had heard Serena crying in the dressing room after the defeat at Wimbledon 2004. This is the detail that Serena then rejected and said to “infringe on private life”.
Not stopping there, the two have repeatedly criticized each other in the media, creating a cold and tense atmosphere when touching.
Sharapova and Serena also represent two opposing images: one is a blonde fashion icon, associated with high -end brands; The other is a strong, personality -colored player and a loud voice in social issues. The difference makes their confrontation more special, not only sport but also culture and lifestyle.
Their last encounter was in the first round of US Open 2019, where Serena won overwhelming 6-1, 6-1. A non -trumpet end, but enough to close a special chapter in WTA history. Serena – Sharapova is not only the feud of the two players, but also a symbol of confrontation between the two worlds.