Maria's parents sold everything they owned to raise the air fare for her to travel to America. Aged 7 and accompanied by her father, they walked into the Tennis Academy unannounced and demand to be seen.
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.