December 23 , 2009
Former world No.1 Maria Sharapova has advised Thai young star Noppawan Lertcheewakarn to be dedicated and stay with good people to become a top player.
Noppawan, who won both junior singles and doubles titles at Wimbledon, has become Thailand's new hope in tennis and Sharapova had some sage words for the talented teenager.
“I have heard great things about her. Anyone who wins a junior slam has a very bright future,” said Russian Sharapova who will play an exhibition match against American Venus Williams in Hua Hin on Jan 2.
“I’d advise her to just keep working hard and take your time and surround yourself with good people.”
Noppawan, 18, will turn professional next year. She also won junior doubles titles at this year's French Open and last year’s US Open.
In an interview with organisers BEC Tero Entertainment, Sharapova said there are some great players from Asia and China and a top 10 player is likely to emerge soon.
The Russian promised that Thai fans would see a good tennis match between her and Williams at the Inter Continental Hotel.
“When you are several weeks from a grand slam, you are playing every match as if it is a tournament,” said Sharapova.
“I think the fans in Thailand will see a very high level of tennis.”
She said she was looking forward to playing in 2010.
“’m really excited for 2010 because this year was not easy with my shoulder injury,” Sharapova said.
“I have been working really hard on and off the court and I can’t wait to get to Thailand.’
Asked about her goal in 2010, she said: “I just want to stay healthy and be happy. And if I can win a few more Wimbledon titles, that will be great too.’
The match will be part of the celebrations to mark the 100th anniversary of Hua Hin, and Sharapova said she had heard great thing about the resort town.
“I can’t wait to get there. I will be enjoying the spa and the great food,” Sharapova said.
“I like many Thai dishes. I love the sauces. I’m just looking forward to trying new things and meeting nice people.”
Asked how she dealt with her fame and celebrity status, she said: “I don’t worry too much about being famous, I just love to play tennis and compete and fame just comes with my love of playing tennis at the highest level.”
One of the most attractive tennis players, she is dubbed the “angel&rdquo by the Thai press.
"That is very nice to hear, but I am just like everyone else," she said.
Asked if she was interested in becoming a Hollywood star, Sharapova said: “I have no interest in acting. Just playing tennis.”
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