GQ Magazine Names Russian Tennis Star Sharapova Woman of 2004

Russian tennis star Maria Sharapova was selected by GQ magazine as one of its 2004 Women of the Year. The GQ editors said that when they first saw the
Russian blond they thought she was just another copy of her famous compatriot Anna Kurnikova until they saw her play. In July, Maria Sharapova won Wimbledon. In November, she became the world’s first Russian WTA champion.

Maria Sharapova was on the list of five Women of the Year, along with Kate Winslet, Uma Thurman, Loretta Lynn, and Gwen Stefani. In September, Maria Sharapova signed marketing deals with electronics giant Motorola and the Parlux Fragrances. The multi-year deal with Motorola does not only include global advertising and event appearances but also allows fans to stay connected to Maria via Web-based content. The deal with Parlux includes the launch of a perfume that will bear Maria’s name before the end of next year.