Maria Sharapova vs. Klara Zakopalova: Wimbledon 2011 Round 3 Preview

Maria Sharapova in action

If one was to assess Maria Sharapova’s achievement in professional Tennis on the scale of her potential, you would come to call her an underachiever. The Russian began her career in a very promising manner but loss of form and injuries have kept her at bay. She made a mark at this year’s French Open and until her exit at the hands of Li Na, it looked like she could go all the way. The hunger is back and she must be craving to make things happen at this year’s Wimbledon. The All England club has been a lucky place for her traditionally and the people love to watch her play. When she faces Klara Zakopalova in Round 3, the crowd is likely to get right behind her.

Sharapova won her first Wimbledon title which coincided to be her maiden grand slam title as well long back in 2004. She has made the semi-finals twice since then but her from has dipped considerably in recent years. Last year she was ousted in the 4^th round and that being her best performance in all grand slams throughout the year 2010. She has looked in better touch this year defeating both her opponents in straight sets so far. Laura Robson did obtain a considerable lead in the first set over her but she squandered it away under pressure.

Sharapova’s opponent in the Round 3 encounter will be Klara Zakopalova from the Czech republic. Klara is ranked 35 in the world rankings and has the ability to pose some problems for the Russian. Klara plays her best Tennis on the grass court and she will work very hard to improve upon her fourth round exit last year. Interestingly, the two players have met before but that was long back in 2003. In that match it was Klara Zakopalova who came out victorious.

The last few months have been encouraging as Maria’s resolve to get back her best has multiplied manifold. She is still plagued by loss of concentration at times and we saw it at the French Open. If she can guard against double faults and be mentally tough, this match should create the least agony for her.

In other ladies’ singles category matches to be played on Saturday, Serena Williams will take on another Russian player Maria Kirilenko. The center court will be occupied by seed no. 1 Caroline Wozniacki as she seeks advancement to Round 4 against Jarmila Gajdosova.