Maria Sharapova survives a scare against Caroline Garcia to reach the quarterfinals of Madrid Open

Maria Sharapova attempts a forehand in her win over Caroline Garcia at the Madrid Open

World No. 2 Maria Sharapova came through 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 against Caroline Garcia to book a place in the quarterfinals.

The Russian’s first serve percentage was just 52 % in the opening set, but she won 72% of points off them to stay ahead. Sharapova broke Garcia’s serve thrice to seize the initiative. Although Garcia broke back once, it wasn’t enough to prevent the defending champion from taking the opening set 6-2.

Sharapova’s first serve dropped to 44% in the second set and she paid the price as Garcia converted two of her four break point chances. 2-time French Open champion double faulted on four occasions and never looked settle as Garcia forced a decider by playing aggressive tennis.

The third set was too close to call as both players held their serve in the first 10 games. The Russian served 4 double faults again, but it didn’t cost her as the French woman committed unforced errors at crucial points. Sharapova broke Garcia’s serve in the eleventh game and served out the match with an ace down the t.

She will face the winner of the match between Caroline Wozniacki and Agnieszka Radwanska in the last eight.