WTA Shenzhen Open: Maria Sharapova advances to semifinals

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Former world No. 1 Maria Sharapova advanced to the semifinal stage of the WTA Shenzhen Open in impressive fashion after beating Zarina Diyas 6-3, 6-3. Sharapova earned the only title in 2017 at the Tianjin Open, after she came back from a 15-month doping ban.

The world number 59 is aiming for a title-winning start to the year in her first visit to Shenzhen. Sharapova committed 22 unforced errors in the match but stepped up her game as she took the opener 6-3.

The 30-year-old hitting 24 winners en route to a straight-sets victory, needing just 90 minutes on the court and plays defending champ and No. 6 seed Katerina Siniakova in the semis, who beat Kristyna Pliskova 6-2, 6-2.

Sharapova celebrates during WTA Shenzhen Open Quarterfinal against Zarina Diyas. /VCG PHOTO

“It will be great to the semi-finalist for this event, this is my first time playing here, so I am happy for the results and having the opportunity to play another match. It is always good and having a lot of things to prove on looking ahead.” Sharapova said at press.

And World No. 1 Simona Halep eases past Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka, sealing a 6-2, 6-2 victory with an ace; needing just 57 minutes to earn her spot in the semis against countrywoman Irina-Camelia Begu.