Maria Sharapova made the joke after ESPN cameras captured her looking downcast at the U.S. Open on Thursday.
The Russian tennis great, who retired in 2020 after winning 36 titles, including five Grand Slams, became an Internet meme when she was in a suite during the women's semi-final match between American Emma Navarro and Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
“On break point, it looked like I missed a second-serve return and I saw my coach's reaction.” Sharapova writes:It includes two laughing emojis.
Sharapova, 37, looked concerned as the broadcast focused on her.
Sabalenka beat Navarro in straight sets and will face fellow American Jessica Pegula in Saturday's final.
She was seen looking up at the video board while speaking with someone off camera frame.
Many online enjoyed the moment.
“Maria Sharapova is still worried about her coach's reaction,” one person said. Written About X.
“This would be a phenomenal meme/gif,” said another. Added.
“Haha, looking great as always,” someone said.
Some praised Sharapova's power suit for her return to the U.S. Open.
The 6ft 2in beauty, who won the competition in 2006, wore a cream blazer and trouser set by Burberry that was backless and featured delicate string detailing.
That day, Sharapova was on a panel at the U.S. Open's “Equality Champions” event, along with Robin Roberts, Billie Jean King and Shonda Rhimes.
