Maria Sharapova did a recent podcast where she shared some advice for young athletes highlighting the importance of having a good group of people around you.
The life of an athlete can be very lonely at times despite being surrounded by many people. Most of your moments are spent alone competing with others which is why it's important to have a healthy group of people around you. Sharapova has been through it all as a player and she shared some advice for players coming up:
"It takes all the strength in the world and very smart and
knowledgeable people to help guide you and help you understand [which
deals to make], especially when you’re young because you don’t know. It’s hard to have a real grip on the business [of brand deals], and to understand what people really want from you and how authentic it is."
Sharapova further added:
"Listen to the people that you’re close with, particularly when you’re young. You have to surround yourself with strong people that are looking after you and not trying to make money from you."