Maria Sharapova is appointed as Russia’s flag bearer in London Olympics – Tennis News
Number one in the tennis world, Maria Sharapova is assigned to be Russia’s flag bearer at the opening ceremony of the London Olympics next month. The news was broken by a member of the Russia’s National Olympic Committee, Shamil Tarpishchev, on Tuesday.
The 25-year-old, Sharapova reclaimed her number one throne this week after conquering the French Open, second of the four Grand Slam events held in Paris, France. After looking at her success, Tarpishchev, who is also Russia’s tennis federation chief, announced
this news.
"We reached an agreement about it just after the French Open final," Tarpishchev was quoted in a press conference. “As far as I know Roger Federer will be Switzerland's flag-bearer and Rafael Nadal will be Spain's. It's very pleasant that the popularity
of tennis is growing around the word."
After stealing the show at the Roland Garros, Sharapova became the sixth woman in the Open Era and 10th all-time to complete the career Grand-Slam (conquering all four Grand Slam events of tennis). She captured the Wimbledon Championships at the
age of 17 and after capturing the crystalware at this prestigious clay court event, the Russian climbed to the number one rank once again. She last stayed at the top of the tennis world in 2008.
"It's the most incredible feeling. I don't know what to say. I'm so happy. I've worked so hard for this," Sharapova reflected after her match. "There are so many tough days where you feel like giving up, but you don't. It's been such a journey to get to
this stage again."
The Florida resident got the better of the 21st seed, Sara Errani of Italy, in straight sets in the final showdown at the Court Philippe Chatrier.
Mustering her glory further, Sharapova received congratulations telegram from Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev.
The gorgeous Masha (Sharapova’s short name) lives in the United States but made clear her loyalty to her country. She always participates in the Fed Cup and step on court after wearing the cross of the Russian Orthodox Church.
The Russian tennis federation chief is looking forward for Sharapova’s success in Olympics. He also expressed the Russian number one would now bid for gold in London.
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