Sharapova Sizzling in Return at San Diego

Posted on July 28, 2004

Russian star Maria Sharapova enjoyed a successful return to circuit tennis Tuesday night easily pounding American qualifier Lilia Osterloh 6-3, 6-3, to advance to the second round of the Acura Classic in San Diego.

Sharapova, the reigning Wimbledon champion, was wildly cheered on by a sell-out crowd of 6,500, and the sixth seed didn’t disappoint.

"My competitive spirit came back and it felt really great to be back on the court," said Sharapova after playing her first Tour match since her surprise win over Serena in the Wimbledon final.

"When you win something big and achieve something big, you enjoy every moment of it. Now I will go back and train and hopefully achieve more great things."

Sharapova has become an instant celebrity and has been taking her new position as a role model in her stride.

"It was exciting to play in front of all the fans," added Sharapova. "I'm glad I can bring in the fans and bring WTA Tour to a higher level. It's great to go out there and show your tennis to all the fans."

Also advancing were top seed Serena Williams, who was battling a left foot blister and needed three sets to subdue Jelena Jankovic and Anastasia Myskina, a straight set winner over Barbara Schett. Serena’s sister, Venus, withdrew due to a sprained right wrist. Ouch.