Maria Sharapova models stylish winter outfits in artistic photoshoot

Maria Sharapova showed off her glamorous side in an artistic photo shoot for the latest issue of Harper's Bazaar Russia.

The 25-year-old tennis star models a series of stylish winter outfits as she strolls and lounges on the beach in the creative images.

Sharapova, who is currently the third highest ranking female tennis player in the world, can be seen happily striking poses in the photos, which are a combination of colour and black and white, the Daily Mail reported.

The Russian sports star oozes confidence and sex appeal, as she wears everything from power suits to saucy side split dresses which show of her honed legs.

Maria Sharapova.

Half of the photo shoot sees Sharapova with tumbling curled locks, while in the other half she sports a sleek bob.

The photo shoot comes as Sharapova is preparing to take part in the London Olympics representing her native Russia.

She has been charged with the honour of carrying the Russian flag during the Opening Ceremony.

She expresses her excitement at the prospect of the prestigious task.

"When I received the call to carry Russia's flag during the Opening Ceremony, I almost didn't believe it," she told Just Jared.

"It was only later that I learned that I was to be the first female athlete in Russia's history to do so.

"It's a very proud moment to be chosen to represent a country that has shown me such support and loyalty throughout my career," she added.