Sharapova signs exclusive Sony Ericsson deal

Sharapova becomes the manufacturer’s first global brand ambassador and will work with Sony Ericsson’s design team on a range of products and accessories. She will also front a series of new consumer brand campaigns.

The agreement compliments the manufacturer’s six-year $88 million (£44.8 million) global title sponsorship of the WTA Tour and remains the biggest deal in the history of women’s sport.

Sony Ericsson vice president and head of marketing Dee Dutta said: “Securing a global brand ambassador is a natural progression to take our brand to the next level in an increasingly competitive market place.”

Sharapova said: “Even though people know me as a tennis player, I have so many passions beyond the sport like fashion, music, film and design; which Sony Ericsson and I are going to be exploring together through our partnership.”