Maria Kirilenko


Country: Russia
Residence: Moscow, Russia
Date Of Birth: 25 January 1987 (1987-01-25)
Place Of Birth: Moscow, Soviet Union now Russia
Height: 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in)
Plays: Right-handed (two-handed backhand)


Maria Yuryevna Kirilenko born in Moscow on 25 January 1987 is a Russian professional tennis player. Kirilenko won her first WTA Tour title in 2005, defeating Anna-Lena Grönefeld in the China Open. Kirilenko reached 18, her career-high singles ranking, on the WTA tour in July 2008. She won the junior event at the 2002 Canadian Open, as well as the 2002 US Open junior tournament. She has reached one Grand Slam quarterfinal at the 2010 Australian Open. As of 2 May 2011, Kirilenko is ranked World No. 26.


Personal life
Born in the Soviet Union of paternal Ukrainian heritage, Kirilenko is a good friend to fellow WTA players Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka, Ana Ivanovic', Agnieszka Radwan'ska, and Marta Domachowska.


Playing style
Kirilenko is an aggressive baseliner, with both power and angle in her shots. She also has good speed around the court and can switch quickly between offensive and defensive play. Her forehand is her preferred shot, often setting up points and a great asset towards her game. Unlike many female players in recent years, Kirilenko is not afraid to come to the net. Her volleying skills are considered exceptional, as she utilizes a drop volley, angled volley, and half volley all very well to quickly end the rally.

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