Maria Sharapova's Alpine Escape in Italy's Dolomites
Former Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova embraced the stunning landscapes of Italy's Dolomites this week, sharing glimpses of her active yet relaxing retreat on social media. The 38-year-old tennis legend documented a day filled with outdoor adventures and spa indulgence during her stay at the luxurious Aman Rosa Alpina property.
An Action-Packed Day in the Mountains
Sharapova, who famously won Wimbledon in 2004 at just 17 years old, revealed she tackled multiple activities during her alpine getaway. "I finally made it to the Dolomites!!" she exclaimed on Instagram. "What a special place this is. Understated. Not flashy at all. What a relief!"
The retired athlete confessed she's "not a skier (yet)" but nevertheless hit the slopes for a skiing session before embarking on a trek through the breathtaking scenery. She completed her outdoor adventures with an invigorating swim, embracing the crisp mountain air.
Spa Indulgence and Relaxation
Following her active pursuits, Sharapova changed into a plunging swimsuit with a low back design for some well-deserved relaxation. She braved the waters before warming up in the sauna, sharing images of her spa experience with followers.
"I trekked, hiked and swam outside, all in one day," Sharapova wrote. "Rinse & repeat!!" Her caption highlighted the property's beauty and thanked hosts Ursula and Hugo for "the most wonderful stay," calling them "the soul of this place."
Reflecting on a Storied Career
Sharapova's current relaxed lifestyle contrasts sharply with her intense professional tennis career. The Russian athlete made history as the first player from her country to complete the career Grand Slam, winning titles in Melbourne, New York, Paris, and London. She remains the third-youngest woman to triumph at Wimbledon after her 2004 victory over Serena Williams.
However, her career faced significant challenges, including a 2016 doping suspension after testing positive for meldonium, a substance that had been newly banned that year. Her suspension was reduced from two years to 15 months when it was determined she had taken the medication under doctor's advice. Sharapova returned to competition in April 2017 and won the Tianjin Open seven months later.
Retirement and New Beginnings
After struggling with chronic shoulder issues for years, Sharapova announced her retirement in 2020 with an emotional farewell message to tennis. "How do you leave behind the only life you've ever known?" she wrote at the time. "How do you walk away from the courts you've trained on since you were a little girl, the game that you love - one which brought you untold tears and unspeakable joys?"
Since stepping away from professional tennis, Sharapova has embraced a more natural appearance compared to her playing days, earning praise from fans who have noticed the transformation on her social media profiles. Her current Dolomites adventure showcases how she's finding new ways to stay active and appreciate life's simpler pleasures beyond the competitive tennis circuit.
