“I loved the occasion” – Maria Sharapova recalls upsetting Serena Williams to capture her maiden Wimbledon title in 2004

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Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova was one of the most dominant athletes in the mid 2000’s, and the retired WTA star took some time to reminisce on the best moment of her career, defeating WTA legend Serena Williams in the final of the 2004 Wimbledon Championships.

TBT: Maria Sharapova beats Serena Williams at the 2004 WTA Finals in Los Angeles - Sports Illustrated

The five-time Grand Slam champion made an guest appearance on the YouTube talk show Hot Ones, where she spoke on various topics regarding her illustrious career. Sharapova reached the pinnacle of the tennis world, climbing to the World No.1 position and joining an exclusive list of women to win the career Grand Slam.

Facing Williams at Wimbledon was a dream come true, says Sharapova

The Russian faced Williams on 22 occasions on the WTA Tour, accumulating a 2-20 record against the American. However, one of her most crucial wins came in the final of the 2004 Wimbledon final, when Sharapova was just 17 years of age.

Serena Williams Vs. Maria Sharapova: By The Numbers

Asked by host Sean Evans to name the most memorable moment of her career, Sharapova selected her win over Williams, stating how much she enjoyed the Wimbledon atmosphere.
“That is such a tough question, and you saved the best for last,” said Sharapova.

“I’d say your first Grand Slam final is ultimately just the most memorable one. In my career, it came at a very young age. I was 17 years old and it was in London in Wimbledon, and you know, the whole world was watching. I was playing against Serena Williams, and everything felt like I should have just been happy to be there, but I was so fearless.

4,829 Serena Williams Maria Sharapova Photos & High Res Pictures - Getty Images

“I loved the occasion. I loved everything about it. I loved the quiet moments of an English crowd. I loved the strawberries and cream before every match I had. Even though I was not supposed to eat the cream. But it’s always the memory that comes to mind because I least expected it to come then. And I was so tough. I went for it.”

Sharapova would retire in 2020 following several battles with injury. However, the 38-year old has turned her attention to various business ventures, including the launch of her own company, Sugarpova, which is a premium candy brand.