In a surprising twist of locker room gossip, one of the world’s top-ranked tennis players has openly criticized Maria Sharapova for her infamous on-court grunts, calling them “pretty annoying” and a major distraction for players. The World No. 8 didn’t hold back, admitting that while Sharapova’s talent is undeniable, her grunting often gets under her skin and even affects match play.
“At times, it drives everyone crazy,” the player confessed, adding that the loud, high-pitched sounds Sharapova releases with every shot are more than just a quirk of her game — they’re an annoyance to her opponents and the audience alike. “It’s one thing to be competitive, but the constant noise is a bit too much.”
Sharapova’s grunts, which could reach decibel levels louder than a lawnmower, have been a subject of controversy throughout her career, with fans and fellow players alike divided on whether they’re a tactic or simply a natural part of her game.
The criticism raises the question of whether grunting has a place in the modern game, or if it’s a form of gamesmanship that throws competitors off. While some believe it’s an integral part of Sharapova’s intensity, others, like the World No. 8, feel it crosses a line.
“Everyone’s got their habits, but there’s a limit. It’s pretty annoying when you’re trying to focus,” the player remarked, leaving fans and experts wondering if tennis needs to address the issue officially or let the grunts play on.
Could this spark a new debate in the tennis world over sportsmanship? As tensions rise on and off the court, it seems this critique may be just the beginning of a larger conversation about what’s fair game in professional tennis.
