Sharapova Upended by Upstart Kvitova in 2011 Wimbledon Final

July 3, 2011 | By New York Tennis Magazine Staff
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Russian Maria Sharapova was upset Saturday in the finals of Wimbledon by Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic, as Kvitova captured her first ever Grand Slam title in a 6-3, 6-4 win. Sharapova, who took home the Wimbledon title in 2004 as a 17-year-old, finished with six double-faults, including three in a row over two games at one point in the first set. The 21-year-old Kvitova reached the 2010 semifinals at Wimbledon, but was defeated by eventual winner Serena Williams.

"It’s hard to find some words. I’m standing here with the trophy and I see some great players in the Royal Box," said Kvitova. "Of course I was nervous in the final game but I hoped that I can win and I had to focus on each point which was important."

Sharapova has won three Grand Slam titles over the course of her career, including Wimbledon in 2004, before shoulder surgery in October 2008. This was her first major final appearance since her career-saving shoulder surgery.

"Unfortunately there is only one winner at the end of day," said Sharapova. "I have had amazing support over so many years and to be back at this stage and holding the runners-up trophy—I wanted that big one and it’s something I’m going to be back for and will get again."


New York Tennis Magazine Staff
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