Russia put the kibosh on tennis player Maria Sharapova’s request to carry the flag during the opening ceremonies of the Beijing Olympics.

Gasp! Could it be that they think the Siberian-born 6′3″ blonde is too Americanized and has inked one too many Madison Ave deals?

Nah. The reason is because they don’t want to tire the poor dear out. All that flag-bearing might leave her tuckered out for her matches. (Thanks to devoted reader Pat for the heads-up!)

Maria Sharapova striking a pose that’s part hottie, part Dr. Evil-with-a-plan.

Image: Used with permission of www.splashnewsonline.com

Speaking of being tired, Maria won’t rest her weary head alongside the other Olympians in the athletes’ village. She’ll be staying elsewhere in order to get proper rest—’cause hey, it’s not like gymnasts and marathoners need a good night’s sleep, right?

Or maybe she grunts in her sleep as well as the tennis court (ever louder, according to the Wimbledon gossip) and she doesn’t want everyone to make fun of her . . .

Post from: EveryJoe

Russian Olympic Team to Sharapova’s Flag-Bearing Offer: Thanks But No Thanks