Maria Sharapova’s decision to hang up her racket on February 26 surprised even famous colleagues like Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

“Her impact on the sport, not just women’s tennis, is huge,” Djokovic praised the “Russian Doll” in a press conference after her second-round win at the ATP 500 in Dubai. “Maria is a smart girl, a friend I’ve known for a long time. She has the mindset of a champion, someone who never gives up and has shown that spirit for the past five years.”

The world number one added: “Sharapova has every right to be proud of her career achievements, such as winning five Grand Slams and being ranked world number one.”

On the evening of February 26, on her personal Instagram page, the Russian tennis player posted a childhood photo of herself standing next to her racket with an emotional farewell: “Tennis, Goodbye!”. Sharapova’s retirement announcement caused a stir in the sports world. Many well-wishes, mixed with regret, were sent by figures in the industry to “Masha” – who won 36 WTA titles, including 5 Grand Slams.

Legend Billie Jean King commented: “Since Sharapova won Wimbledon in 2004 at the age of 17, she has become a great champion. Five Grand Slam titles and a former world number one status, her success in business is as impressive as her achievements in tennis. I wish Maria all the best.”

When Sharapova won her first Grand Slam, Stefanos Tsitsipas was still a five-year-old boy, and the Greek tennis player’s impression of the “Russian Doll” is very deep. He said: “I used to watch her play when I was little, and I remember when Masha won Wimbledon. At 17, it was unbelievable. She had a great career. I think many people are jealous of Masha’s achievements. She is a good player, the best after Serena. Her success has contributed a lot to the sport.”

“We didn’t know her for long, but long enough to know what a great champion she was. We learned a lot from Masha, a great person. Thank you for all the memories and good luck on her next journey,” ATP’s Twitter page wrote.

Sharapova’s boyfriend Alexander Gilkes supported his girlfriend’s decision. The British businessman wrote on Twitter with a photo of Sharapova on the field: “Maria, you are one of the most professional and amazing athletes I have ever known. May you continue to inspire people with your humility, confidence and strength. As the first chapter closes with many extraordinary achievements, we hope you will continue to reap many more successes in the years to come. Proud and love you very much.”