Both Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams are playing some of the best tennis of their career at this time. While Williams is continuing her streak of dominating women's tennis, Sharapova has had recent success in tournaments that make her a threat for this year's French Open. While she may be considered a long shot to repeat her clay-court title, any defending champion will always be a favorite.
While Williams is at the top of her game, Sharapova is not shaken by the No. 1 American tennis player. While her record against the 15-time grand slam winner is less than stellar at 2-13, five of her last six titles have come on clay court. Sharapova is preparing to try and get the upper hand on Williams leading into the upcoming major.
"With a player like that who is an incredible champion and has so much experience and confidence, you really can't give her that. Everyone's level drops off from time to time during the match, and Serena is no exception. But she overcomes those drop-offs quicker than others. And then, of course, it's the way she serves. That is a very dangerous weapon in her hands," Sharapova said.
The Russian star finally broke a 13-set losing streak to Williams this spring during the finals in Miami. Sharapova led by a set and break, but errors allowed Williams tom comeback and place a third-set smackdown on her in the end.
Sharapova has had a solid start to the tennis season. She won at Indian Wells and Struttgart. She also played in the finals at the Miami and Madrid WTA Premier Tournaments as well as getting to the semifinals in the Australian Open. Sharapova feels rather satisfied with her run so far and is ready to carry the momentum into Roland Garros.
While some tennis experts believe Sharapova has a mental block when it comes to Williams, much like Andy Roddick with Roger Federer, the 26-year old would only admit that she sometimes takes her foot off the pedal when facing Williams.
Williams is a on a career-best 24-match win streak. The last time she has lost to Sharapova is 2004. Sharapova caused a surprising upset in the Wimbledon finals to beat her. Williams will not be the only one gunning for Sharapova. Li Na who won the title in 2011 and Australian Open champ Victoria Azarenka are both looking for success in the tournament.
Sharapova and Williams have been the best two women's tennis players on clay over recent seasons and look to remain that way.
