Maria Sharapova, 38 years old and still a global icon, shared news yesterday on Instagram that made millions of followers explode with happiness: she is expecting her second child with her husband Alexander Gilkes. The black and white photo, with the hand on the belly already visible, reached 2 million likes in a few hours.

The post, accompanied by a touching caption, also reveals the name chosen for the little girl: “Welcome to the world, our darling Juliette Rose Gilkes”. Fans literally went crazy for the delicacy and elegance of the name, considered “perfect for the princess of the Sharapova house”.

Alexander Gilkes, British entrepreneur and co-founder of Paddle8, appears in the second photo tenderly kissing his wife’s belly. The couple, married in 2022, already have a son, Theodore, born in July 2022, and are now preparing to become a family of four.

Congratulations arrived immediately from former rivals and friends: Serena Williams wrote “Welcome little princess! Can’t wait to spoil her”, while Naomi Osaka posted little hearts and the phrase “Juliette already wins everything”. Even historic brands such as Nike and Evian commented with celebratory emojis.

But the moment that shook the web came a few hours later, when Alexandra Eala, the very young Filipino tennis star (and Maria’s “adoptive sister”, having been under her wing since she was a child), published a story that in just 12 words left everyone breathless.

“I will finally have a granddaughter to win all the Slams together with.” Twelve dry words, full of ambition and irony, which have already totaled over 800,000 views. Fans immediately interpreted the message as the promise of a future tennis dynasty.

Alexandra, 20 years old and already number 85 WTA, is considered the Asian heir of women’s tennis. The thought of one day seeing Juliette and her aunt Alexandra compete (or play doubles together) made the entire racket world dream.

Meanwhile, Maria, who ended her career in 2020, is enjoying this second pregnancy with serenity. In an exclusive interview with Vogue he confided: “Theodore can’t wait to be a big brother, he keeps kissing my belly.” The birth is scheduled for spring 2026.

The name Juliette Rose, in addition to being refined, seems to pay homage to both literature (Romeo and Juliet) and the sweetness of the rose, Mary’s favorite flower. Italian fans have already created the hashtag #WelcomeJuliette which has skyrocketed into national trend.

While the world of sport and entertainment continues to flood social media with good wishes, one thing is certain: the Sharapova-Gilkes family is writing a new, very sweet chapter. And with Alexandra Eala ready to act as a “champion aunt”, this little girl’s future promises to be legendary.