Maria Sharapova and Bryan Brothers Inducted into International Tennis Hall of Fame
Former Russian tennis star Maria Sharapova and American doubles legends Mike Bryan and Bob Bryan have been inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The ceremony featured a surprise appearance by 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams, who is eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2027.
Attendees were stunned when Serena walked on stage during the event. To everyone’s surprise, she introduced Sharapova, calling her one of the few players who consistently challenged her to be her best on court.
“There were only a few players in my career who pushed me to the limit every time, and Maria was one of them,” Serena said. “Whenever I saw her name next to mine in the draw, I practiced harder — and I know the feeling was mutual.”
Alongside Sharapova, the legendary Bryan brothers, Mike and Bob, known for their record-breaking doubles career, were also honored. They concluded their speeches as always — by pounding their chests in signature style.
All three inductees received a special casted tennis racket as a commemorative gift from the Hall of Fame.
Other Hall of Famers in attendance included Martina Navratilova, Jim Courier, Stan Smith, and Andy Roddick.