Garbine Muguruza is yet to drop a set at French Open 2018, and looked totally at ease on court during her 6-2 6-1 win over Maria Sharapova.
It was a completely different match to their 2014 encounter at Roland Garros, when the Russian won 1-6 7-5 6-1.
“Last time we played was a very long time ago, and a lot of things happened in between,” said Muguruza in her press conference.
“(Today) I felt like I was a more developed player. And I was very motivated out there because it was a Grand Slam quarter-final.”
Muguruza: No.1 ranking not that important
Muguruza’s excellent performance sets her up perfectly for her opportunity to take the place of the current World No.1, Simona Halep, at the top of the rankings. But it is not something she is thinking about.
“It’s not that important, because it’s constantly going on,” Muguruza said. “I gave it a lot of importance before, fighting every week, and I got there.”
The 2016 French Open champion knows she will have to produce her best tennis to beat Halep, but she is embracing the opportunity.
“It’s a very good match,” Muguruza said. “I think she’s right now probably the best player. Well, she’s No. 1. So I’m excited to play a good semi-final.”
Muguruza reaping the benefits of experience
The Spaniard seems to be in a similar state of mind to her victorious Wimbledon fortnight last year, and she believes experience has made her more relaxed.
“Maybe before, I was holding my breath more,” Muguruza said. “Now I just find moments to enjoy, moments to be serious, moments to train. I’ve learned with experience how to manage these long tournaments better. And I think I’m doing it more and more.”
Crucially, the two-time Grand Slam champion still loves her job just as much as ever.
“I love playing tennis,” The Spaniard said. “I love playing on Chatrier. It’s one of my favourite courts: the crowd, the big stage. So deep inside it’s a great moment, even though I’m not smiling out there.”
