"Serena actually I have to take this away from you for one year, I'm sorry," said the gobsmacked 17-year-old, clutching the famous Venus Rosewater Dish on Centre Court on Saturday.

"I know there are going to be so many more moments when we're going to play.

"I'm sure we're going to be here another time and hopefully many more times in other Grand Slams, fighting for the trophy, so thank you for giving me a tough match but I'm sorry I had to win today."

Sharapova, the first Russian to win Wimbledon, tried to call her mother in the United States on court but could not get through on the mobile phone her father Yuri threw down to her.

"It keeps switching off, I don't know what's wrong with it," she said. "I was trying to phone my mum."

She thanked her parents and paid special tribute to her father, who took her the United States when she was seven.

"I know how tough it is to watch," she said. "Playing is a lot easier, believe me. I owe him so much."

Sharapova said she would definitely be celebrating despite not feeling 100 percent.

"I got a cold this morning so I hope I will feel better but I will definitely do something believe me," she said.

Serena was gracious in defeat despite seeing her dream of third successive title shattered.

"It wasn't my day today but Maria played a really great match. Congratulations on your first Grand Slam," she said with a cheery smile.