Maria Sharapova

"We always thought it was just a matter of time before she would be chasing Grand Slam titles and the No. 1 ranking. Well, that time arrived last season.
She has the skills, weapons, and the motivation to get to the top after finishing last season ranked No. 4. In 2005, she will be definitely feeling more pressure because she is going back to tournaments where she is defending a lot of points, and opponents will be after her to get extra bonus points to get the win. I expect that all the attention being thrust on her won't affect her game. In my opinion, those on Team Sharapova are managing Maria's career very wisely, limiting media opportunities, and her endorsement deals. They are managing Maria's time so she does not become diverted from her tennis. Maria's first and foremost goal is to be No. 1 in the world, and with a solid game plan in place, she could reach that goal in 2005 ..."

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