Maria Sharapova goes from the Hall of Fame to the practice court

"Best 30 mins of my day. No phone. No distractions. Just you and the ball."

You might think the above quote comes from a recreational player, finally able to get away from the drudgery of work or demands of home for a quick hit. You might think the quote definitely does not come from a professional tennis player, who hits the ball around the world, 11 months a year.

Maria Sharapova is no recreational player—and is no longer a professional tennis player. She is, however, an International Tennis Hall of Famer. She last played competitively at the 2020 Australian Open, retired shortly after and, this August, was introduced at the induction ceremony by none other than Serena Williams.

"Serena did more than sharpen my game," said Sharapova to a shocked crowd in Newport, "she helped crystallize my sense of identity."

Like Serena, the time for a Maria comeback has passed, but they've both been seen on the practice court lately. Williams took some cuts earlier this summer, and this weekend, Sharapova showed that absence indeed makes the heart grow fonder:

The 38-year-old noted the following in her Instagram Story:

• It was her first time practicing in two years
• She misplaced her tennis shoes
• She got her racquet strung at 59-61 pounds
• She paid $78 for that racquet stringing—and was complimented on her ability

Like riding a bide, Sharapova looked comfortable on the court after plenty of time away. With exhibition season on the horizon, and Serena and Maria in great spirits, who says no to a Williams-Sharapova exo?