Maria Sharapova meets her match on Hot Ones: "This was no joke!"

Maria Sharapova was famously cool and collected on the tennis court—but when it comes to spicy food, it’s a different game.

The former world No. 1 was hilariously reduced to tears while taking on the infamous hot wing gauntlet as a guest on Hot Ones, the viral YouTube series hosted by Sean Evans. The show challenges celebrities to eat increasingly spicy wings while answering questions—and over the years, it’s featured big names from Gordon Ramsay to Billie Eilish, Shaquille O’Neal and Hugh Jackman.

Sharapova’s appearance marked the show’s 10th anniversary in partnership with Stella Artois, one of the retired tennis star’s brand partners. She recently represented the Belgian beer label during Wimbledon as part of their “Perfect Serve” campaign, joining fellow ambassador David Beckham to pour pints on Henman Hill and watch the action on Centre Court.

Read More: David Beckham and Maria Sharapova among celebrities that attend Day 1 of Wimbledon

During the interview, the 38-year-old fielded questions about her career—including the origins of her famous on-court grunt, which was once measured at 101 dB (roughly as loud as a jet plane taking off).

“I want to say it’s an intimidation factor, but that’d be a lie,” Sharapova explained. “It was something that I started doing at a young age, and it just clicked and I kept it up. I think it just got louder and louder.

“But it might get louder with these wings!”

As the sauces got hotter, so did the questions—including one about the emotional toll of finishing runner-up at a Grand Slam and standing through the trophy ceremony.

The tennis questions continued as the heat levels progressed, with host Evans asking Sharapova about the brutal experience of being a runner-up taking part in a trophy ceremony.

“Not enough people talk about that,” she said. “It’s one of the most challenging moments as an athlete. And as a tennis player, because not many other sports (make) the runner up stay on court while the trophy—and check, by the way, but who’s counting the money?—get presented.

“And you’re just left with your tears, and a little hot wing? And it’s just not pleasant.”

Still, she reflected on the value of those difficult moments: “In moments of vulnerability, especially as an athlete, your character comes through in the way you’re handling difficult situations.

“Part of being on the podium as a runner-up, I think, ultimately sets you up for winning.”

By the final wing, Sharapova was visibly struggling—eyes watering, face flushed, swearing and laughing between coughs.

“How are you asking me questions when I’m about to pass out?” she exclaimed as she reached for a napkin.

Sharapova retired from tennis in 2020 with five Grand Slam titles and a career-high ranking of No. 1. These days, she’s focused on her businesses, brand partnerships, and life with partner Alexander Gilkes and their three-year-old son Theodore.

Read More: Maria Sharapova calls on Wall Street Journal to “do better” after Aryna Sabalenka headline

She’s remained a visible presence in tennis—attending events like Wimbledon and the US Open, and occasionally weighing in on the sport. Recently, she sparked conversation by calling out the Wall Street Journal on social media, urging them to “do better” in their coverage of world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.

And last week, Sharapova was officially inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame alongside American doubles legends Bob and Mike Bryan during a ceremony in Newport, Rhode Island.