However, her parents have always believed in her talent and when she was 5, they took her to an exhibition tournament in Moscow where - in fairytale style - she was spotted by Martina Navratilova.
Ashes to return to free-to-air
Ashes series has been put on the list of events whose broadcasting rights should not be given to satellite channels.
Federer wins incredible final
Federer held his nerve in an amazing fifth set to seal a remarkable 5-7 7-6 7-6 3-6 16-14 victory on Centre Court as Roddick's brave resistance was finally broken.
Sport round-up
Federer wins Wimbledon and Serena Williams takes the women's title. Check out all the weekend's sporting action.
Fans applaud Murray
The good news for British tennis is that Andy Murray has probably not yet hit his peak. We talk to fans who say their hero will be back with a vengeance next year.
Ashes to return to free-to-air Ashes series has been put on the list of events whose broadcasting rights should not be given to satellite channels.