Maria Sharapova lost to Angelique Kerber in straight sets champions at the Australian Open tennis on Saturday.
Maria Sharapova’s hopes of a title-winning return at the Australian Open tennis were unceremoniously crushed. By Angelique Kerber as the battle of the former champions ended 6-1, 6-3 in the German’s favour on Saturday.
The Rod Laver Arena evening clash between the only two grand slam winners left in the women’s draw had the feel of a showpiece final rather than a third-round clash but it was Kerber who rose to the occasion.
Sharapova, back in Melbourne after testing positive for a banned substance here in 2016 resulting in a 15-month ban, had looked menacing in the opening two rounds.
Make that 1️⃣2️⃣ wins in a row in 2018 for @AngeliqueKerber!
The 2016 champion sends a message to the rest of the tournament.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/QbXdVVW51y
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018
She streaked away with the first set and although 2008 champion Sharapova briefly threatened a fightback. After falling behind in the second, it was not to be the Russian’s night.
A fluffed drop shot attempt at 3-4 followed by an unforced error gave 2016 champion Kerber breathing space and she finished the contest in the next game.
Hope play good in next.