Maria Sharapova and Amanda Anisimova will play each other in an exhibition match at the Mubadala Tennis Championships in Dubai in December. Both players are managed by IMG.
Sharapova has been struggling with injuries but she continues to be popular among tennis fans. Anisimova skipped the US Open due to death of her father. Anisimova is currently ranked 24th and is one of the youngest players in the top 100.
18-year old Amanda Anisimova has signed a long-term deal with Nike. With Serena Williams and Sharapova nearing retirement, Nike has signed the up-and-comer to a deal worth $100 million dollars.
Sharapova’s 8-year $70 million deal is about to expire shortly. Sharapova was one of the most marketable athletes for more than a decade but injuries and age have slowed her down in recent years.
Anisimova’s immense potential, combined with her good looks have had sponsors circling her all year. She is represented by talent agency IMG, as is Sharapova.
Anisimova reached the semifinals at Roland Garros this year, beating Simona Halep in the quarterfinals. She also won her first title in Bogota, Colombia.