Novak Djokovic pays 'champion' tribute to retiring tennis star Maria Sharapova

After 19 years and six Grand Slam titles, tennis great Maria Sharapova has decided to call it quits. Tennis fans have long regarded Maria Sharapova as one of greatest competitors on court, especially after win against Serena Williams in 2004 Wimbledon Final. re was an outpour of tribute for Maria Sharapova and her extensive list of achievements moments after she anunced her retirement. Current World . 1 vak Djokovic also hopped on that bandwagon following news of Maria Sharapova retirement. 

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Maria Sharapova retirement: vak Djokovic pays classy tribute to tennis great

Maria Sharapova retirement news was greeted with a horde of messs from fans and sports personalities alike, detailing how former World . 1 inspired people from all corners of globe. vak Djokovic also spoke on Maria Sharapova retirement news at  Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. vak Djokovic paid a classy tribute to Russian tennis legend after being asked about his thoughts regarding her retirement.

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“She’s a great fighter. As dedicated as someone can really be in our sport. willpower an willingness to kind of overcome all obstacles she h, especially with injuries and surgeries and trying to fight back, come back to court and play on her desired level. It’s truly inspirational to see what mind of a champion she has. I’m sorry that it h to end with an injury obviously but at same time she h a fantastic career and she can be proud of herself.” - vak Djokovic on Mario Sharapova retirement news

A number of sports personalities recalled Maria Sharapova's exploits on court, paying tribute to Russian tennis great on social media. likes of Billie Jean King and Petra Kvitova joined vak Djokovic in wishing five-time Grand Slam champion well in her retirement. Acemy Award-winning actress Reese Wirspoon also joined list. 

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Why did Maria Sharapova retire?

With Maria Sharapova retirement news coming to light, a number of tennis fans have posed question, 'Why did Maria Sharapova retire?' Sharapova has been plagued by injuries, all way back to 2008 when she underwent surgery on her shoulder. While she did make a return to sport after a 15-month doping ban, she has only mand to reach one major quarterfinal since her return, which, quite possibly, could have led to her calling time on her career. 

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