Maria Sharapova (Photo : REUTERS)
Although she is still working through a minor leg injury, second-ranked Maria Sharapova plans to return to competition by taking part in the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati.
The last time Sharapova competed was in Wimbledon where she lost to Serena Williams in the July 9 semifinals, reports Associated Press. She was slated to return to Toronto last week to compete but had to withdraw after she injured her leg during training.
For this tennis season, Sharapova won two titles. Her record is 34-7, leaving her unsatisfied and wanting to improve her record further.
Her opponent for the number 2 slot is Simona Halep. Whoever emerges as number 2 would not face number 1, Serena Williams, until the finals in New York, notes WTA Tennis in a press release. In two scenarios created by WTA, it said Halep takes number 2 by winning the title if Sharapova wins her match, but will be number 2 simply by reaching the final if Sharapova losses the opening match.
Since Halep and Sharapova are on the same half of the draw, a match between the two in the semifinals would not necessarily determine who is number 2 if Sharapova wins. But if Halep wins, she automatically becomes number 2.
Sharapova admits that when she plays against Williams, Serena takes her out of her games. "That's why she's in the position she's in. I don't think it's a secret. I think she know against certain players she needs to bring out her best."
Sharapove adds, "The way that she plays Azarenka, myself, maybe a few others, she brings it on the line. And we know we have to bring it, too."
