Sharapova inks deal with Gatorade, Tropicana

Defending U.S. Open champion Maria Sharapova has signed a deal with PepsiCo Inc. to endorse Gatorade and Tropicana.

The deal is scheduled to be publicly announced Wednesday. Terms of the pact have not been released.

"It's about what's inside of your body, what makes you the individual you are," Sharapova said. "As for myself, I think it's the competitiveness that I bring out on the court and the drive that I have within me."

Sharapova finished last year behind only Justine Henin-Hardenne in the WTA Tour points rankings, and the deal with Gatorade and Tropicana adds to her rapidly growing list of major endorsements worldwide.

The 2004 Wimbledon champion, who doesn't turn 20 until this April, signed a "lifetime" deal with racket and apparel company Prince last year for a reported $25 million. She also endorses Canon, Colgate, Nike, Tag Heuer, Land Rover and others.

Her estimated annual income from endorsements, appearance fees, prize money and other sources is believed to be somewhere in the $30 million range.

"Not only is Maria Sharapova one of the world's best athletes, but she exemplifies a healthy lifestyle both on and off the court," said PepsiCo senior vice president Ron Coughlin. "We know she will be a tremendous ambassador for both Gatorade and Tropicana."

Company officials said Sharapova will lead a global hydration education campaign, plus star in a new Gatorade ad to launch early this year.

Sharapova is the top seed in this week's Watson's Water Champion Challenge in Hong Kong, which is set to be her final tuneup for the Australian Open.