Former world number one Maria Sharapova has been involved in several controversies during her illustrious career. One of those moments came early in 2014, when the former Russian tennis star was called a ‘tea bag’ by the mother of the former world number one in the men’s singles category, Andy
Murray, Judy Murray.
She posted those comments on her official account on the social media platform Twitter, which is now known as Twitter. “Sharapova is like a tea bag. Put her into hot water, and you'll find out how strong she is,” she wrote. In response to that, Sharapova was very critical of Murray’s mother and, at one point, asked, ‘Who is that?’
"Who is that? Okay, sorry, I didn't know who Judy
Murray is. I love tea. I am a big tea drinker. I don't understand what she
means,” she said back then. “She's very creative. I guess she could have put it
many different ways, and she chose the English version. I think it's better to
ask her than me. Obviously, she has a better sense of what's going on out
there."
Sharapova was one of the most famous player in women’s tennis
during her playing days. She quit professional tennis back in 2020 much to the
surprise of everyone because back then, she was just 33 years old. The Nyagan-born
finished her illustrious career after winning five Grand Slams in her illustrious
career.
Her first title was Wimbledon in 2004 where she defeated the
former world number one America’s Serena Williams in straight sets with a score
of 6-1, 6-4. Sharapova’s last major title came in 2014 when she lifted the French
Open after beating the former world number one Simona Halep with a score of 6–4,
6–7(5–7), 6–4. That’s not it as Sharapova also won a Silver medal for her
country in the 2012 Olympics in London.
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.