Revenge on Sharapova's mind |
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20 February 2006 Dubai: Maria Sharapova has sworn vengeance on rival Martina Hingis after the Swiss comeback queen toppled the Russian at a recent tournament. Hingis claimed a convincing victory over Sharapova at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo earlier this month. Sharapova, in town for the Dubai Open, is hoping to turn the tables on Hingis if they meet during the tournament. The Russian, who has a bye in the first round, could face Hingis if the Swiss Miss wins her first game against Indian Sania Mirza. Speaking at the launch of the Motorola PEBL phone, Sharapova said: "Playing Martina would be an exciting game and hopefully I will get my revenge." But the world number four conceded that even the early games would be tough. "The first few rounds won't be easy," she said. "This is one of the toughest fields in a tournament that you will see and the level of tennis will be tough. "I'm sure the fans are looking forward to a good time." Sharapova made it clear that she came to Dubai to win but admitted the crown she really wants this season is Wimbledon. "I would love to win this tournament and perform at my best," she said. "I would also love to be at the top again and win a Grand Slam this season especially Wimbledon. "On the court is where my personality comes out. When I go out on the court I'm all about the competition. "I don't necessarily enjoy the practice side so much. I have always been a match player." If Sharapova is to lift the trophy this week, she must see off some tough competition in not only Hingis but also Anastasia Myskina and Lindsay Davenport at the semi-final stage. By Sarah Tregoning |
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