Maria Sharapova Admits She Was ‘100% Ready’ to Retire After 2025 Hip Surgery Setbacks
In a candid revelation, former world number one and five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova opened up about the challenges she faced in 2025 that nearly ended her illustrious tennis career for good. Speaking at a recent event, Sharapova shared the story of her prolonged recovery from hip surgery and the physical and emotional toll it took, admitting she was “100% ready” to retire during her darkest days.
Sharapova underwent hip surgery in early 2025 following years of persistent pain that had affected her performance on the court. While initially optimistic about the procedure, her recovery turned out to be far more grueling than anticipated. “I thought I’d be back on the court within a few months,” Sharapova said. “But instead, I found myself struggling to do even the most basic things like walking or climbing stairs without pain.”
The setback was compounded by complications during her rehabilitation, including inflammation and nerve pain that delayed her return to full fitness. “It felt like my body was betraying me,” she admitted. “Every time I thought I was making progress, something would set me back.”
The physical challenges were only part of the struggle. Sharapova described the mental toll of being sidelined for an extended period and the doubts that crept into her mind about her ability to return to professional tennis. “There were moments when I didn’t recognize myself,” she confessed. “I wasn’t the strong, confident athlete I used to be. I started to question whether it was worth it to keep fighting.”
She also opened up about the loneliness she felt during her recovery, a stark contrast to the high-energy world of competitive tennis. “When you’re in the spotlight, surrounded by fans and teammates, it feels like you’re on top of the world. But in recovery, it’s just you and your thoughts. It can be isolating.”
Despite the bleak outlook, Sharapova eventually found her motivation to continue. A turning point came when she reconnected with her love for the game, not as a competitor but as a lifelong passion. “I started hitting balls again, not for training, but just for the joy of it. That’s when I realized I wasn’t ready to let go.”
Sharapova credits her support system — including her family, friends, and a dedicated team of medical professionals—for helping her through the toughest moments. “They reminded me that I’ve overcome so many obstacles before, and I could do it again.”
Although retirement seemed inevitable in 2025, Sharapova now sees it as a possibility on her own terms. “When I do decide to step away, it will be because I’m ready, not because my body forced me to,” she said with determination.
Sharapova’s story is a testament to her resilience and unyielding spirit. While her future in tennis remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Maria Sharapova is not just a champion on the court but also a symbol of perseverance and grace in the face of adversity.
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