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The record-breaking American twins Bob and Mike Bryan, famously called Bryan brothers , along with five-time Grand Slam singles winner Maria Sharapova, were elected as members of the International Tennis Hall of Fame's Class of 2025. The Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island, will host the induction ceremony on August 23 to formally recognize two tennis greats for their outstanding careers.
Former player Kim Clijsters, the current President of the International Tennis Hall of Fame and Class of 2017 Hall of Famer said she is honored to welcome both legends as the International Tennis Hall of Fame's Class of 2025.
Incredibly grateful to receive this honor: Maria Sharapova on her induction into Hall of Fame
Sharapova, now 37, holds major achievement as the first Russian to be world No. 1 in 2005. She won silver in the women's singles competition in the 2012 Olympics, earning her another medal. She last occupied the top spot on July 8, 2012. Adding more to her achievements, she has won two majors at the French Open and one each at the US Open, Australian Open, and Wimbledon. She won 36 trophies overall, including the year-end crowns on her 2004 debut. She retired from world tennis in 2020.
Sharapova was known for her unwavering dedication to the game despite her frequent shoulder issues. However, her reputation suffered in 2016 when it was revealed that she had tested positive for drugs called meldonium. She was served with a two-year ban from the International Tennis Federation; however, after an appeal, the term was lowered to 15 months. On being selected for the Tennis Hall of Fame, she expressed her gratitude with a thankful note on her social media account: “Incredibly grateful to receive this honor. This recognition is a beautiful reminder of the deep appreciation I have for my fans. Each one of you made me reach for the stars."
Bryan Brothers- Legendary double partnership duo
Bob and Mike Bryan are credited as the most successful doubles duo in tennis history. They have won 16 Grand Slam championships, an Olympic gold medal, and held the top spot in the world rankings for a record 438 weeks. They have an outstanding total of 119 titles between them, including 39 ATP Masters 1000 wins.
In a statement released by the former world No. 1 Kim Clijsters, she said, “Beyond their historic accomplishments on the court, the Class of 2025 has had a profound impact on the game of tennis, inspiring multiple generations of fans worldwide."
