Sharapova Makes Successful Return at Brisbane International
December 30, 2013 | By Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
Photo credit: Kenneth B. Goldberg
Maria Sharapova returned to action after four months on the shelf on Monday at the Brisbane International, defeating Caroline Garcia in straight-sets, 6-3, 6-0. Out since August with a right shoulder injury, Sharapova never faced a break point against Garcia in eight service games.
"I think I was just really determined to get back on the court," Sharapova said. "It's been a while. I think the whole team was really ready to go out. I knew I was going to play Monday night a little bit ago already. I got goosebumps when I heard because I was looking forward to today even a week ago. It's those days you work for. It was a big step to come and a big step to play out there tonight."
Sharapova advances to round two where she will face 17-year-old Australian Ashleigh Barty, a 6-3, 7-5 upset winner over Daniela Hantuchova.
“She [Barty] is another future star and someone that I’ve seen grow up from the juniors and now onto the tour," said Sharapova of her second round opponent. “She’s already played a few matches, four, I believe, here. For me, it’s my second match. I think for both of us it’s just really, in different ways, a great opportunity for me to go out there and play another match against a tough opponent, also a tougher crowd as well, which is understandable. It’ll be fun."
