Maria Sharapova Opens Up on Troubled Times Ahead of Shenzen Open

Maria Sharapova, who will be playing in her first tournament since September last year, is thrilled and looking ahead to a new and positive experience, after having battled injury related obstacles, and has not looked settled since her comeback from the infamous doping ban.

However, despite being positive with her approach, she is not optimistic about her results in the immediate future. The Shenzen Open will without doubt be a stern test for Sharapova, with a draw brimming with strong players, awaiting her return. She will face Timea Bacsinszky in her first round, who will be a tricky opponent for the former slam winner. Bacsinszky herself is returning from an injury lay off and a massive drop in her singles rankings. It will be a battle of nerves for the both, as they look to find their rhythm as early as possible.

Maria Sharapova, who is currently sitting on the world number 29 spot in the WTA singles rankings, spoke about her shoulder injury that had forced her out of the 2018 season early. “I’m really excited to be back and competing in a tournament,” said Maria Sharapova. “It’s been a long recovery from the shoulder injury”, she continued, “Maybe for the first few matches I won’t feel great and I will need to improve with every match I play.”

“But just to be back here in a competitive atmosphere and doing an interview again, I feel it really gets the juices flowing”, said the Russian. “You know you are here for a reason and that is to compete and try to be the champion again.”

Maria Sharapova, who has been in good spirits, has been touring the city and has the look of a well relaxed and rejuvenated player, who is hungry to get out there in the field. She will play her first round at the Shenzen open later today.