Sharapova edges closer to comeback

Originally published on: 10/12/13 00:00

The four-time Grand Slam champion played her first match in four months as she lost an exhibition match to fellow former world No.1 Ana Ivanovic in Colombia.

Sharapova, who has played just one match since Wimbledon after struggling with hip and shoulder injuries, lost the champions’ tie-break as she was beaten 6-1 1-6 12-10 in Bogota.

"After months of not competing, tonight was a baby step forward! I missed this so much,” Sharapova said on Twitter after the match. "Thank you Colombia for such a warm welcome."

Sharapova, who recently appointed Sven Groeneveld as her coach, is scheduled to make her competitive return to action at the Brisbane International, which starts on December 29 ahead of the Australian Open on January 13.

Now get the WORLD’S BEST TENNIS MAGAZINE here

By Tim Farthing

About the Author / Tim Farthing

Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.