Keys and Sharapova bond over Evian, share similarities

Could Madison Keys become the next Maria Sharapova? The 22-year-old American has a lot in common with the former No. 1 on and off the tennis court. While a Sharapova comparison can seem tired—and even annoying these days—hear this one out on account of their budding friendship (thanks to Evian).

Keys landed an endorsement deal with Evian earlier this year. The water company also endorses Sharapova, Lucas Pouille and Stan Wawrinka.

Sharapova and Keys have shared several friendly moments together and most recently were featured in a creative "Oversize" campaign that also included Wawrinka and Pouille.

Since she won Wimbledon as a 17-year-old, Sharapova has been the queen of endorsements. She was the highest paid female athlete for 11 years until Serena Williams overtook her in 2016. The 30-year-old's charisma and marketability have been an important part of her identity during a career that's seen her win five major titles and briefly hold the No. 1 ranking five times.

Keys has some catching up to do. She has yet to break through with a major title, and has had a slower climb than the Russian, but she's been pegged as a future Grand Slam champion for years. The American, who cracked the Top 10 for the first time last year, reached the semifinals of the Australian Open in 2015 and has won two WTA titles. They've faced off just once, with Sharapova winning in Cincinnati three years ago.

She’s a marketing jewel in Evian’s eyes, and Nike's (which also outfits Sharapova).

There are other similarities as well. Keys and Sharapova both grew up in Florida under the tutelage of esteemed coaches. Sharapova tore onto the scene at 17, while Keys also had some early success by winning her first WTA match at just 14 years old.

On court, they both hit with full power of both wings, lacking any fear in going for their shots or aiming for the lines. Though Keys' serve is a greater weapon, Sharapova has a sharp-shooter return to make up for it.

Sharapova will be missing at Roland Garros next week, and Keys is still regaining her form after wrist surgery. But both have games suited for the grass lawns of Wimbledon. Keys will need to stay healthy, and Sharapova will have to qualify, but there's no doubt they'll be favored to go deep.