TENNIS: Smash Hits
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Former tennis star Anna Kournikova surprised fans with a rare public appearance, though the 43-year-old Russian player was wheelchair-bound.

Kournikova, who has largely kept out of the public eye since retiring in 2003 due to severe back and spinal problems, was spotted at Bal Harbour Shops in Miami, Florida, over the weekend.

She was accompanied by her two daughters, Lucy and Mary, and some friends during this rare public appearance.

While it remains unclear why she was in a wheelchair, that fact seems to indicate Kournikova might be recovering from a leg injury. She was also sporting an orthopedic boot.

Anna Kournikova In Public Is A Rare Sight

Anna Kournikova, once a prominent figure in the world of tennis and considered one of the most beautiful women in the world, has significantly reduced her public appearances ever since she left the sport of tennis.

The young Russian has predominantly focused on her personal life, including her relationship with Spanish singer Enrique Iglesias, with whom she has three children.

Her decision to stay out of the public eye has been influenced by her desire for privacy, especially concerning her family life. However, she occasionally appears in public or on social media, often related to charity events.

Kournikova serves as a Global Ambassador for Population Services International’s “Five & Alive” program. The program addresses health crises facing children under the age of five and their families.

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Her Playing Career

It’s important to note that when Anna Kournikova retired in 2003, she was only 21 years old.

Kournikova burst onto the tennis scene in the late 1990s, quickly becoming one of the sport’s most recognized figures due to her talent and marketability. She turned professional in 1995 at the age of 14, and her highest singles ranking was No. 8 in the world in 2000.

Kournikova never won a singles title but was highly successful in doubles, winning 16 titles, including two Australian Open championships with partner Martina Hingis.

Injuries, though, cut her time on the court short.

Kournikova’s star power, despite the lack of grand slam titles, was amplified by her natural beauty. She had a minor role in the 2000 film Me, Myself & Irene, starring Jim Carrey and Renée Zellweger.

Kournikova starred in ads promoting Berlei’s shock absorber sports bras. That stint included billboard campaigns with the tagline “Only the ball should bounce.”

Rusty Weiss is a lifelong NFL and MLB fan (Cowboys/Dodgers) and sometimes fan of college basketball (Xavier). Rusty is ... More about Rusty Weiss
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