10 countries who have dominated the Open Era in women's tennis

#2 Russia

Maria Sharapova

Post the disintegration of the Mighty Soviet Union, Russia emerged as a powerhouse in tennis. Anna Kournikova could be hailed as the poster girl of Russian tennis in the 90s. The pretty blonde who created waves around the tennis universe for her killer looks had notable success in doubles with Swiss teen sensation Martina Hingis.

In the new millennium, Russia could be hailed as a potent force in the women's game with a plethora of female tennis players dominating the WTA tour courtesy their athletic physiques and powerful baseline game.

Russian tennis announced itself on the world stage in the year 2004 when three of the four Ladies singles grand slam singles title were won by Russian players. The pack was led by their golden girl Maria Sharapova.The tall and lanky Russian blonde combined her model like looks with some sublime tennis to become one of the highest earning and popular female tennis player in the new millennium. Sharapova has been a World No. 1 and has completed a career Slam in her career.

Svetlana Kuznetsova, another top-ranked player has won two Grand Slam Titles. She has tasted success in doubles too by winning the Australian and US Open. The likes of Elena Dementieva, Vera Zvonareva, Nadia Petrova, Dinara Safina, Anna Chakvetadze and Maria Kirilenko all have had resounding success by winning multiple tour titles and spending a considerable time in the top 10.

At present, the Russians have some exciting young players in Ekaterina Makarova and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. Courtesy a group of top-ranked players, the Russians have managed to become a dominant force in the Fed Cup, winning the coveted title four times.

Russia in Fed Cup: Champions - 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008

Grand Slam Singles Titles won by Russian Players: 8 Titles - Maria Sharapova (5), Svetlana Kuznetsova (2), Anastasia Myskina (1)

Medals at Olympics:

Ladies Singles: Elena Dementieva - Gold (2008), Silver (2000), Maria Sharapova - Silver (2012), Dinara Safina - Silver (2008)

Ladies Doubles: Maria Kirilenko and Nadia Petrova - Bronze (2012)