MARIA SHARAPOVA has taken a bold step to cure boredom during the coronavirus lockdown – by sharing her phone number with fans.
Having retired in February, the Russian tennis star is not missing out on the major tournaments being cancelled because of the pandemic but is seeking the company of her loyal following.
Sharapova surprised many by handing out what she claimed to be her own phone number
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Sharapova surprised many by handing out what she claimed to be her own phone number
Sharapova, 32, even provided a phone number on her Twitter page, drawing 17,000 likes and over 2,000 replies.
She tweeted: “Not only did I just get a 310 number (hello cool cats) but I’m sharing it with you—Text me! For real.
“Tell me how you’re doing, ask me questions, or just say hello. Any great recipes welcome too.”
In the video, Sharapova added: “Hello everyone, happy Friday, whatever that means in today’s world.
“I’ve been trying to find a way to be in touch with all of you because last week I did a really fun Q&A on a video conference with 150 of you.
“I wanted more. A big part of that is because we’re all in this social distancing together, so I want you to text me what you think.”
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Fans were then told to “wait to get a response” from the five-time major winner.
Sharapova’s supporters were quick to take advantage and lauded the retired player for connecting with them during a difficult time.
One fan, Romulo, tweeted: “Just wink me! I’ll be proud.”
Delia called out: “PETITION to get Maria Sharapova on WhatsApp!!”
And Sara added: “Maria, please, download WhatsApp so we can send you messages from out of US.”
The call out for interaction is along similar lines, but somewhat different, to fellow tennis ace Genie Bouchard’s lockdown desires.
The Canadian, 26, wrote on Twitter: “Not complaining, but I feel like quarantine would be a lot more fun with a boyfriend.”
Sharapova retired from professional tennis in February after an early defeat in the Australian Open
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Sharapova retired from professional tennis in February after an early defeat in the Australian OpenCredit: EPA