From Champion to Shadow — Why Maria Sharapova Is Avoiding the Spotlight Again

Maria Sharapova, known for her commanding presence both on and off the tennis court, has recently been the subject of speculation regarding her perceived withdrawal from the public eye. The headline “From Champion to Shadow” suggests a deliberate choice to avoid the spotlight, prompting questions about why such a prominent figure might step back.

While it’s true that Sharapova is no longer constantly in the media glare of professional tennis, framing it as “avoiding the spotlight again” might misrepresent her current phase of life. Since her retirement in 2020, Sharapova has transitioned into new roles: that of a successful businesswoman, investor, and most significantly, a mother. She welcomed her son, Theodore, in 2022.

This shift in priorities naturally means a different kind of public presence. The relentless demands of a professional tennis career involve constant travel, training, media obligations, and tournament appearances. Post-retirement, many athletes prioritize family life and pursue ventures that allow for more control over their schedule and public exposure. Sharapova is actively engaged in her entrepreneurial endeavors and enjoying motherhood, which inherently requires a more private lifestyle than that of a global tennis icon. Her current “shadow” might simply be the natural, and often desired, consequence of embracing a new, more personal chapter, far from the constant scrutiny that comes with being a champion athlete.