2012 London Olympics Profile: Maria Sharapova

In preparation for the 2012 Olympic Games in London, we're profiling 20 of the top medal contenders.

Maria Sharapova left Paris last month with the Roland Garros title in hand—and a memorable text message embedded on her cell phone. Following her third-round win at the French Open, Sharapova received a request asking her to carrying the Russian flag during the Olympic opening ceremonies.

“I had to read the text message five times and read it to other people to make sure I got it correct,” said Sharapova. “I am so honored, and especially excited as it will be my first Olympics. It’s something I've dreamed of since I was a young girl, so I really can't wait.”

The 2004 Wimbledon champion will be a favorite to win a medal on the lawns of SW19, and her Olympic experience might include the Winter Games as well: Sharapova served as an ambassador for her former home city of Sochi’s successful bid to host the 2014 Winter Games, which she may attend.

Previous Olympic Singles Results

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Previous Olympic Doubles Results

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More Olympic Profiles:

—Agnieszka Radwanska
—Ana Ivanovic
—Andy Murray
—Andy Roddick
—Angelique Kerber
—Jo-Wilfried Tsonga
—John Isner
—Juan Martin del Potro
—Kei Nishikori
—Kim Clijsters
—Li Na
—Maria Sharapova
—Milos Raonic
—Novak Djokovic
—Petra Kvitova
—Roger Federer
—Serena Williams
—Tomas Berdych
—Venus Williams
—Victoria Azarenka