Maria Sharapova, a five-time Grand Slam singles champion, led the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s fan vote in her first year on the ballot. The voting results were released on Friday by the organisation. American doubles team Bob and Mike Bryan finished second, while Canada’s Daniel Nestor came in third.
The Hall of Fame reported that tens of thousands of fans from 120 countries participated in the voting. Fan voting is one of two steps in the selection process for the Hall’s next class. The second step involves an official group of journalists, historians, and Hall of Famers from the sport who vote on the ballot for the class of 2025.
Sharapova’s Achievements
Sharapova expressed her gratitude to her supporters, stating, “I am incredibly grateful to the fans all around the world who supported me during the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s fan votes.” She added, “It is a tremendous honour to be considered for the Hall of Fame, and having the fans’ support makes it all the more special.”
Sharapova became the first Russian woman to reach No. 1 in the world. She won Wimbledon in 2004, the U.S. Open in 2006, and the Australian Open in 2008. Additionally, she claimed victory at the French Open twice, in 2012 and 2014.
Fan Vote Impact
To be inducted into the Hall of Fame, candidates must receive 75% or higher on combined results from both the official voting group and additional percentage points from the fan vote. Sharapova will gain an extra three percentage points from winning the fan vote.
The Bryans, who have won 16 Grand Slam doubles titles, will receive two additional percentage points. Nestor, who has won eight Grand Slam doubles titles, will get one extra percentage point.
Upcoming Announcement
The next class for induction into the Hall of Fame will be announced late next month. The anticipation builds as fans and officials await to see who will be honoured.
Sharapova was also part of Russia’s championship Fed Cup team in 2008 and won a silver medal at the London Olympics in 2012. Her illustrious career has made her a prominent figure in tennis history.
