June 23, 2011
Former World No.1 Maria Sharapova takes on Britain's Laura Robson for a place in the third round of the 2011 Championships at Wimbledon, season's second Grand Slam event being played here at the All England lawn tennis Club in London, England.
Three time slam champion Maria Sharapova shot to super stardom right here at Wimbledon seven years ago when she claimed her maiden Grand Slam title as a 17 year old. The years that followed witnessed consistent performance from the Russian who claimed two more majors in New York (2006) and Melbourne (2008) before suffering an injury that changed the course of her career. After a nine month layoff, Sharapova returned only to deal with a series of disappointing losses that eventually ended with a big triumph in Rome this year. Sharapova also made it to the semifinals of Roland Garros, her best Grand Slam performance since winning the 2008 Australian Open. In the first round, Sharapova looked completely at ease in dispatching the challenge of countrywoman Anna Chakvetadze 6-2, 6-1 to secure her second round berth.
Sharapova's opponent, Britain's Laura Robson is currently ranked No.237 in the world and is a world card entry into this year's championship. By winning her first round match against Angelique Kerber in the previous round, Robson enjoyed her best Grand Slam performance to date. Robson has no WTA singles titles to her name so far but has an ITF title.
This is a first meeting between both players and even though Robson has the tremendous crowd support ensured even before stepping on the court, Sharapova will seal the deal, most likely in straight sets.
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