Maria Sharapova marked her 38th birthday in true fitness style — with a workout session in Los Angeles on Tuesday. The tennis star, who has been suspended by the International Tennis Federation following a doping controversy, was spotted leaving the gym in a slouchy gray sweater and black leggings, her hair slightly damp from a sweat session.
The former world No. 1 kept things casual yet chic, shielding her eyes with stylish sunglasses as she exited the studio. Earlier that morning, Sharapova shared an Instagram post filled with birthday joy, featuring photos of flowers and gifts from loved ones. “Special birthday morning filled with flowers, gifts, and hugs,” she wrote.
Just days before, Maria had been enjoying herself at the Coachella Music Festival, mingling with friends and fellow celebrities before returning to her fitness routine.
Sharapova, who has not played since losing to Serena Williams in the Australian Open quarter-finals, is currently waiting for a decision on how long her suspension from tennis will last. She admitted to testing positive for meldonium — a drug she said she had been prescribed for ten years — during the tournament in Melbourne. The World Anti-Doping Agency banned the substance on January 1, something Sharapova claimed she was unaware of.
Since the announcement, she has faced multiple setbacks, including being dropped by sponsors such as Nike and Porsche, and stepping down from her role as a United Nations goodwill ambassador.
At a press conference in Los Angeles, the five-time Grand Slam champion defended herself, emphasizing that the medicine had only recently been added to the banned list. WADA has since admitted uncertainty about how long meldonium remains in the body, suggesting that some athletes — possibly including Sharapova — might receive leniency.
Despite the challenges, the Russian-born star, who has lived in the U.S. since 1994, appeared composed and optimistic on her birthday, balancing fitness, celebration, and reflection on a pivotal chapter in her career.
