Maria Sharapova signs health-tech deal

Five-time Grand Slam title winner Maria Sharapova is entering the world of technology.

Five-time Grand Slam winner Maria Sharapova. Picture: Therabody

Five-time Grand Slam title winner Maria Sharapova is entering the world of technology, backing a health tech company that makes Bluetooth-enabled massage devices.

Sharapova, who won Wimbledon aged 17 and retired from the game in February, talked to The Australian about life after tennis, and the challenge she too faces being grounded by coronavirus.

She says she has used her time to further develop her business interests, and that involves a key role as a member of the advisory board of Therabody, a tech wellness firm launched in 2008 by chiropractor Jason Wersland. He had sought a remedy for the chronic pain he suffered following a motorcycle accident.

You apply the company’s Theragun massage gun to specific muscle groups to reduce muscle tension. The Los Angeles-based company is up to its fourth generation of the device and says it is available in 60 countries.

Maria Sharapova with Therabody CEO Benjamin Nazarian (left) and founder Dr Jason Wersland. Picture: Therabody

The latest models include Bluetooth connectivity so you can choose the type of therapy. It delivers what the company calls “percussive massage therapy” to increase blood flow.

Sharapova says she took on the role after talks with its CEO Benjamin Nazarian. “It was clear that they prioritised collaborative partnerships, which was something that really excited me – more of an opportunity to be involved in the strategic aspects of the business.

“As a member of Therabody’s advisory board, I’ll be focused on continuing Therabody’s expansion globally and advising on future product development.”

She also has invested in the firm. “I think what interests me most about the health and wellness space is seeing how different products and companies can have such a positive impact on people’s everyday lives,” says Sharapova.

Theragun Elite (gen 4).v Picture: Therabody

“As I think about investments – particularly in the wellness space – one of my biggest considerations is how those products can make a difference in someone’s daily routine.

“I first came across Therabody when I was still competing and was drawn to their amazing technology and how they were bringing a better road to recovery for all kinds of athletes.”

She said she would miss being able to travel to Australia this summer due to flying restrictions.

“ I just don’t know what travel will look like in the foreseeable future. I’ve always loved spending time in Australia – it’s my January home – so not having the opportunity to visit this year will feel very different.”

Like the rest of us, she has mainly been confined to barracks – at home for several months in California. She has enjoyed some local trips. Her Instagram feed includes shots of her journeying into Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado.

Maria Sharapova in Colorado recently. Source: Instagram

“It’s obviously been a strange year and an incredibly challenging time for so many people, in a number of different ways.

“As much as I wish I could be travelling and exploring new parts of the world, I’ve really appreciated all of this extra time I’ve had to spend with my parents.”

Sharapova also operates the Maria Sharapova Foundation which previously donated $100,000 to Chernobyl related projects, and ran a $210,000 scholarship program in Chernobyl affected areas of Belarus. It offered support to the victims of the 2004 Beslan school hostage crisis.

She maintains her Sugarpova confectionery line which it is understood also provides funds for charity.

“For me, I’ve been spending a lot of time focused on Sugarpova and my businesses, but also using this time at home to catch up with friends and loved ones.”

If you fancy a life of guilt-free chocolates and sweets, and percussive massages, Maria Sharapova is your person.