LOS ANGELES — The sprawling £18.5 million mansion once owned by tennis legend Maria Sharapova has found a new high-profile owner, with reports confirming that another elite sports star has purchased the luxurious pad. The sale concludes a multi-year chapter for the property, which Sharapova initially put on the market back in 2019, shortly after her retirement from professional tennis.
The new buyer, whose identity has been the subject of much speculation in real estate circles, is none other than British Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time F1 titlist has reportedly paid close to the asking price for the prime Los Angeles property, adding another impressive estate to his global portfolio. The deal signifies a continued trend of elite athletes investing in Southern California's ultra-luxury real estate market.
A Sanctuary of Grandeur and Privacy
Nestled in the exclusive and guard-gated community of Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, California, the estate is a testament to Sharapova's refined taste and desire for privacy. The Russian-born champion, who amassed a fortune through her on-court success and savvy business ventures, purchased the property in 2014 for a reported $5.5 million. She then embarked on an extensive, multi-million dollar renovation to transform it into her personal sanctuary, a process that took over two years to complete.
The result is a 6,845-square-foot contemporary farmhouse that masterfully blends rustic charm with modern sophistication. The home sits on nearly an acre of meticulously landscaped grounds, offering sweeping views of the surrounding golf course and mountains. A source close to the original design team stated, "Maria was deeply involved in every detail. She wanted a home that was both a peaceful retreat and perfect for entertaining, and this property delivers on both fronts."
Inside the Palatial Estate
Stepping inside, the home's interior is bathed in natural light, featuring wide-plank oak floors, soaring ceilings with exposed beams, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor living spaces. The main level boasts an open-plan layout centered around a state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen, complete with marble countertops and top-of-the-line appliances, which flows effortlessly into the grand living and dining areas.
Key features of the property include:
- A spacious master suite with a fireplace, a private balcony, and a luxurious spa-like bathroom.
- Four additional en-suite bedrooms, providing ample space for family and guests.
- A dedicated wellness wing featuring a professional gym, a sauna, and a cold plunge pool.
- A custom-built wine cellar capable of housing hundreds of bottles from around the world.
The Ultimate California Indoor-Outdoor Lifestyle
Perhaps the most captivating aspect of the estate is its outdoor amenities, which are perfectly suited for the Southern California climate. The backyard is a private oasis designed for relaxation and entertainment. It features a stunning infinity-edge swimming pool and a separate jacuzzi spa, both overlooking the manicured fairways of the Sherwood golf course. A vast covered patio with an outdoor kitchen and multiple seating areas is ideal for al fresco dining and hosting large gatherings.
The property's design emphasizes a seamless flow. As one architectural critic noted after a tour, "The boundaries between inside and outside are intentionally blurred. It’s a home that invites the calm and beauty of its natural surroundings into every room, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere." This philosophy aligns perfectly with the wellness-focused lifestyles of both its previous and new owners.
From Tennis Ace to Property Mogul
For Maria Sharapova, the sale marks another successful transaction in her growing portfolio of real estate investments. Since retiring, the five-time Grand Slam champion has focused on her business ventures, including her hugely successful Sugarpova candy brand. Her decision to sell the mansion was reportedly driven by a shift in her lifestyle, spending more time in New York and traveling internationally. A real estate insider commented, "Maria has an incredible eye for property. She bought this at a good time, invested significantly in its transformation, and is now capitalizing on a very strong market for ultra-luxury homes."
Sharapova was recently spotted at the Chanel Paris fashion show, looking every bit the global businesswoman and style icon, a world away from the tennis courts where she made her name. Her ability to seamlessly transition from sports stardom to the world of high fashion and business is mirrored in her approach to real estate—strategic, tasteful, and highly successful.
A New Chapter with Lewis Hamilton
For Lewis Hamilton, the purchase represents a significant foothold in Los Angeles, a city he has frequented for years. The F1 star already owns properties in New York, London, and Monaco. This new acquisition provides him with a private base close to the vibrant social scene of LA while offering the seclusion and security of the Sherwood community, which is home to other celebrities and high-net-worth individuals.
Hamilton's own commitment to wellness, fitness, and design makes him a natural fit for the property. His well-documented passion for art and architecture suggests he may put his own stamp on the estate. An associate of Hamilton's mentioned, "Lewis appreciates spaces that are not just beautiful but also functional and calming. This property offers the perfect environment for him to unwind during the off-season and focus on his many projects outside of racing."
The sale also highlights the enduring appeal of Los Angeles real estate for international sports stars. The city's combination of perfect weather, privacy, and proximity to major industries like entertainment and technology continues to make it a magnet for the global elite. The transaction between two icons from different sporting disciplines underscores the unique community that exists at this level of wealth and fame.
A Legacy of Champions
In many ways, the transfer of the property from one champion to another feels like a passing of the torch. Both Sharapova and Hamilton are known for their relentless drive, meticulous attention to detail, and unparalleled success in their respective fields. The mansion, with its blend of power, precision, and elegance, is a physical manifestation of those shared qualities.
As Sharapova continues to build her legacy beyond tennis, and Hamilton races toward further history in Formula 1, the £18.5 million mansion stands as a testament to the rewards of a champion's mindset. It is more than just a house; it is a symbol of achievement and a private haven for those who have competed at the very highest level. The estate's new chapter under Lewis Hamilton's ownership ensures its story as a home for sporting greatness is far from over.
The deal was brokered by luxury real estate agents who specialize in discreet, high-value transactions for celebrity clients. While the exact final sale price was not publicly disclosed, sources confirm it was a major sum that reflects the property's unique status and impeccable condition. The successful sale amidst a fluctuating global economy signals continued strength at the very top tier of the real estate market.
For now, the iconic property remains a landmark of success, its halls having hosted one champion and now ready to welcome another. As Maria Sharapova focuses on her future endeavors, from the front row of fashion shows to the boardrooms of her businesses, Lewis Hamilton can look forward to enjoying the California sun in his new, spectacular home, a worthy reward for a life spent at the pinnacle of sport.