Wimbledon 2012: Sharapova: Always room for improvement

Maria Sharapova insisted there is still room for improvement after the world No1 eased into the second round of Wimbledon with an emphatic 6-2 6-3 victory over Anastasia Rodionova.

The 25-year-old began her first Grand Slam campaign since winning the French Open in impressive style, racing to a 5-0 lead before her Australian opponent grew into the first-round encounter.

The women’s top seed went on to claim the first set in 35 minutes, and despite Rodionova drastically improving following a poor start to the match, Sharapova broke in the fourth game of the second set and sealed victory to set up a meeting with 2010 semi-finalist Tsvetana Pironkova in the next round.

“I still believe that I can achieve a lot more [in my career],” said Sharapova. “That’s what drives me to get up in the morning still, no matter how much success I’ve had, no matter how many downfalls, I still believe I can be better.”

Sharapova’s victory at Roland Garros was her first Major success since undergoing a right shoulder operation in 2008 and the Russian admits her climb back up the rankings has been far from easy.

“It [winning Roland Garros] was certainly the best gift I could have received at this time in my career,” added Sharapova. “I certainly worked hard for it. My comeback wasn’t the easiest. It wasn’t a Cinderella story, that’s for sure.

“It took a lot of tough days and losses and some wins to get to that moment. But you realise when you actually do get there that it’s worth it.

“All of those situations you’re put in and put through, if you come out of them, it’s a nice prize on the other side.”

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