MADRID: Maria Sharapova’s encouraging return to the European clay has hit a snag after she crashed out of the Madrid Open to Kiki Bertens.
The former world No.1 faded away as the match progressed to go out 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, to the world No.20. Having 21 winners fired past her and getting broken seven times. Resulting in her opponent progressing to her first Premier Mandatory semi-final.
“I look at these types of matches, I see a lot of things I should be better at, I should improve on. I think it’s a combination of taking the positives, but also being a little tough on yourself and expecting a little bit more from yourself.” Sharapova said during her press conference. “That’s the only way to improve. You can’t keep giving yourself a pat on the back.”
There are positives for the Russian this week. Madrid is the first tournament where she has claimed three consecutive wins since Shenzhen at the start of the year. Earlier this week she has got the better of Mihaela Buzărnescu, Irina Camelia Begu and Kristina Mladenovic. A run that is set to elevate her back into the world’s top 40 for the first time since returning from her doping suspension.
Now back under the guidance of Swedish coach Thomas Hogstedt once again, the five-time grand slam champion is eyeing further improvement heading into the French Open. Pointing out that she needs to make adjustments to her movement and speed in matches.
“I thought I just should have made those smaller adjustments with my feet, moving back.” Sharapova explained.
“I was just a little slow on that. Just a little hesitant. Some of those opportunities. Keep improving the return. A much better week on that for me this week. But I think there’s a lot more work I can do on that.”
As issues continue with her tennis, there is better news concerning her fitness. Earlier this year, Sharapova was blighted by a left forearm injury. On top of that, she was also advised by doctors to temporarily suspend flying in March after doctors discovered an ‘air pocket’ in her lung. For now, both of those issues are in the past.
“It’s so nice to play when you can hold the racquet in your left hand, when you’re not worried about other things, when you can just play tennis. It’s a really nice feeling. That doesn’t happen all the time. That’s just part of the sport, as well.”
Sharapova will play in Rome next week in what will be her final tournament before the French Open.
