Maria Sharapova of Russia has become a three-time winner at the inaugural Pro Tennis Choice Awards on Tuesday night in Miami, a WTA Tour press-release says.
Sharapova was named the WTA Tour Player of the Year after winning her first Grand Slam event and claiming four titles. The 17-year-old Russian also received the Most Improved Player award and the Fans’ Favorite award.
The Wimbledon winner was also nominated for the so-called “Sports Oscar” - Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award — earlier this month.
She debuted in 2001, and three years later became the first-ever Russian Wimbledon champion and second female Russian Grand Slam champion. Sharapova surpassed $1 million in season earnings on July 5 after Wimbledon, and $2 million by the end of the season, topping the 2004 prize money list. At the moment she is one of three Russians in the Top 5 year-end rankings.