Photos courtesy of Nike

(December 20, 2010) Former World Ranked No.1 Maria Sharapova is parting ways with sports brand Prince Sports Inc.

After using the brand for the last 10 years, both Sharapova and the racket manufacturer was amicable.

In a statement emailed to Bloomberg.com, a representative for Prince as well as Sharapova said,
“Sharapova’s contract with Prince allowed the parties to mutually agree to end the relationship this year and Sharapova and Prince have decided to do so.”

On Sunday, Dec.19, the former Wimbledon champ’s agent Max Eisenbud refused to comment on which racket the player will be using next, but in Nike's latest promotional photo's for the 2011 Australian Open, the player can clearly be seen using a Head racket. Prince will continue to have the rights to market and sell Sharapova signature line products throughout 2011 but starting with the ASB Classic in Auckland, she will actually play with another brand.

In her own statement, Sharapova says,
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my partnership with Prince…Their rackets helped me to three great slam victories and much more. I will always retain nothing but the highest admiration for Prince.”

Sharapova's first event will take place in Auckland, New Zealand at the ASB Classic.