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Sharapova to Debut Limited Edition Racquet Bags at 2007 U.S. Open

Bordentown, NJ —Maria Sharapova, one of the most recognizable and popular athletes on the planet, can now add racquet bag designer to her long list of on and off court accomplishments. With the introduction of her new limited edition Sharapova Collection, the fashion-focused twenty year-old has created a line of products that will combine the benefits of both a beautiful on-court racquet bag and functional handbag in one.

Sharapova will unveil the first piece, the 6-pack racquet bag, when she takes to the court for her first round match at the U.S. Open next week. And what better place to showcase a new collection than the fashion capital of the world, New York City, in front of thousands of fans! Maria’s goal was to create fashion-inspired products that incorporate specifically constructed compartments designed to hold and organize everyday items many women carry to the court.

“Racquet bags don’t have to look like gym bags. Like any other bag in a women’s wardrobe, it should complement her and add a touch of glamour,” said Sharapova. “I wanted to bring a sense of style to the racquet bag, while at the same time make it completely functional and durable.”

All pieces in the collection have an exterior comprised primarily of stylish black patent leather with splashes of deep fuchsia velour in the Prince logo. The interior is made up of heavy-duty nylon, used to protect Maria’s O3 White racquets and her personal belongings.

The Sharapova Collection tour bag has four separate compartments designed to hold:

• Cell phone
• MP3 player and earphones
• “Personal stuff” (makeup, jewelry, keys, etc.)
• String/grip tape, sweat bands or pens for those pre or post match autographs!

Sharapova, who signed a lifetime partnership agreement with Prince last August, and plays with the O3 White, tennis’ best-selling racquet*, worked in close conjunction with the company’s design and production teams to create and deliver the limited edition bags in time for her U.S Open appearance.

“Maria has an incredible sense of style and it really comes through in this collection,” said Linda Glassel, VP of Marketing and Communications at Prince. “We appreciate her insight and help in producing these beautiful, functional bags. We are looking forward to seeing her take to the court with her new bag as she begins her quest for a second straight U.S. Open title.”

Aside from the 6-pack tour bag that Maria will carry, this limited addition Sharapova Collection will offer a triple bag as well and will be available to consumers, for a limited time, nationwide beginning November 1 - just in time for the 2007 holiday season.

• Tour bag/6-pack - $70.00
• Triple racquet bag - $50.00

In addition to these limited edition products, new pieces in Prince’s signature Sharapova Collection will be available starting January 2008.

For more information about Maria Sharapova, please log onto princetennis.com or mariasharapova.com.

Posted on August 22, 2007
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