Sharapova crashes out in Turkey
The former Wimbledon champion will be among the favourites for the French Open, which starts on Sunday
Also In The News
|
Former Great Britain prop James Lowes will rival Australian Shaun McRae for the vacant coach's role at Salford Reds. |  |
Friday, 25, May 2007 09:18
Top seed Maria Sharapova was sent packing from the Istanbul Cup after losing to Aravane Rezai 6-2 6-4 in the semi-finals.
The Russian lost in straight sets to the 20-year-old, despite the Frenchwoman struggling with a leg injury.
Sharapova, who served seven double faults, said her progress to the last four in Turkey will hold her in good stead for the start of the French Open this weekend.
"I am glad that I came here and I played a few matches before Roland Garros, though it is unfortunate to lose in the semi-finals," Sharapova said.
Rezai will meet Elena Dementieva in tomorrow's final after the Russian beat Alona Bondarenko 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 in her semi.
The Frenchwoman, who saw off Venus Williams in the second round, said her best is yet to come.
"It is the best result of my career - this is the fruit of my work. I have been working very hard in the last weeks," Rezai said.
"I am very happy about defeating Sharapova. Dementieva is a more experienced player than me. I believe that I will play better tomorrow."
Rezai, who is ranked 62nd in the world, is bidding for her first WTA title.
She is barred from using the facilities at Ronald Garros after a two-year ban after allegations of violence towards the French Fed Cup captain by her father in March.