Maria Sharapova exits Australian Open’s first round

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Former grand slam champion and World no. 1 Maria Sharapova was knocked out of the 2020 Australian Open first-round against Donna Vekic of Croatia in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4.

Since coming back Sharapova has failed to reach the semis in each tournament she has joined, questions now surround the Russian star’s career.

Is Sharapova still capable of winning another grand slam?

That’s the biggest question that’s been buzzing all over social media and in sports channels as her first-round exit proved to be a sign of slowing down.

The Russian star has faced an uphill battle since her return, resulting in a disappointing record as she continues to revitalize her career.

Barred from the sport she loves for almost one year due to a substance ban, Sharapova’s fire and will to win was just absent after notching a bunch of surprising losses even from an unseeded foe.

Also, the wildcard invitation sent to her by the Brisbane Cup was the first in her career, a former world number one only to be offered a wildcard slot.