Started in golf aged 12 and studied at Moscow State University of Sport. Former Russian Amateur Champion, and nominated as best Russian player in 2004 and 2004. Also claimed the Austrain Amateur Championship in 2006. Runner-up in the World University Championships in Turin in 2006. Started to play golf at the age of 12. Studied sports at Moscow State University of Sport. Started to play golf at the age of 12. Studied sports at Moscow State University of Sport. She is the first Russian to become a full-time member of the Ladies European Tour. Close friend of Russian tennis star Yevgeny Kafelnikov, who won the gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. They are regular golf partners. Turned pro in 2006 and she has played on the LET since then. Had a daughter - also named Maria - in September 2012. an Amateur Champion in 2005. Slovenian Amateur Champion in 2005. Runner up in the 2006 World University Championships in Turin. Amateur Champion in 2005. Slovenian Amateur Champion in 2005. Runner up in the 2006 World University Championships in Turin.