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Collecting stamps doesn’t make you a ‘Dork’ Maria!

“It is something that was introduced to me when I was very young,” the 22-year-old said.“I have been very lucky over the years to travel to some amazing countries and I always try to collect stamps from every place I go.

“I am hoping one day that I will be able to hand my collection over to my kids.”

Usually influential for her racket skills and ‘marketers dream’ looks over her off-court hobbies, Sharapova’s admission has contributed to a more fashionable image for the most traditional of pastimes.

Stamp sales have increased by 30 percent in the last month according to ebay, while the Royal Philatelic society has noticed a significant rise in its membership.

Sharapova first admitted to the unlikely hobby in 2006, though at the time, she appeared less than reluctant to divulge the information, muttering; “Everyone’s calling me a dork now.”

WTA adds Malaysia to 2010 events.
The Lawn Tennis Association of Malaysia (LTAM) in collaboration with promoters Carbon Media Management and the Youth and Sports Ministry will host the Malaysian Tennis Classic 2010 at the Bukit Kiara Equestrian and Country Resort from Feb 22-28.

With Malaysia joining a select number of countries in Asia to host the Tour event, the tournament will be guaranteed of the presence of at least two players from the top 20. Besides a 32-player singles competition, the tournament will also have a doubles event featuring 16 pairs.

The LTAM president, Datuk Abdul Razak Latiff, said that Malaysia would be hosting a WTA-sanctioned event for the first time.

Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek (right) balances a ball on his racquet while
(from left) LTAM president Datuk Abdul Razak Latiff, Jawairiah Nordin
and Alyssa Boey look on after the launch of the inaugural
Malaysian Tennis Classic at Bukit Kiara Equestrian and Country Club.
Pic: AIZUDDIN SAAD