The dedicated-but-ailing Maria Sharapova appeared at the South Street Seaport on the eve of the U.S. Open to launch a new camera, the PowerShot SD1100 IS, for Canon. In conjunction with this latest model they are giving away five bedazzled one-offs, each encrusted with 88 white diamonds for a total of 2.2 carats per camera. (Enter the sweepstakes.)

Masha wore a crazy “I’m-a-little-teapot” design by Lanvin and was flanked by look-alikes dressed in black and white versions of what would have been the Russian’s Nike outfit — had she not pulled out of the tournament due to injury.

A temporary 50-foot white dome built specifically for the event (event logistics deets here) also housed a Wii loaded with Top Spin 3, a photo station, and a flatscreen that premiered Maria’s latest TV ad for Canon which, of course, starred her beloved Dolce (view).

We had a chance to chat with Masha about the Beijing Olympics and Fashion Week:

On the Olympics: “I was really excited to see Nastia Liukin win because she and I share the same history. She was born in Russia and also came to the U.S. at such a young age.”

On her Fed Cup teammates sweeping the tennis medals: “It’s pretty crazy that three of the four [Russians who were] in the draw were on the podium. It’s so wonderful. I haven’t had a chance to talk to them, but I’m very happy.”

On which shows she’s eyeing for Fashion Week: “I’d love to go to Vera Wang. She’s a good friend of mine. and Peter Som as well.”

On following men’s fashion: “I have a hard time women’s trends as it is. It changes every single week. It’ll take me a while to get that point.”

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Domed if you don’t: Speaking of, you should check out the Buckminster Fuller exhibit at The Whitney if you can. It’s on view through September 21.

(tent image via BizBash)