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Sharapova eyes Grand Slam set


 

Originally published on: 24/05/12 00:00

Twice a semi-finalist at Roland Garros, in 2007 and 2011, the world No.2 tells CNN’s Open Court that she sees no reason why she can't complete the career Grand Slam at this year’s event, which begins on Sunday.

“The French Open has always been a big goal of mine because I’ve always said it’s going to be the most challenging Grand Slam for me to win,” said the 25-year-old Russian.

“If I go there and I play well, physically I’m healthy and I feel great, there’s no reason why I cant win it. I’ve been in a couple of semi-finals, last year as well. It’s really about whether I can put myself in that position and win it. I believe in that definitely.”

Sharapova, has already won titles in Stuttgart and Rome during the European clay swing, but the 6’2” right-hander, who once described herself as a ‘cow on ice’ on the dirt, admits that while she has improved no end on the surface, it still takes some getting used to.

“Those first few days on clay are just brutal,” she said. “Especially in practice, you’re just getting your footwork down and the movement. I never crack rackets, but those first few days I crack rackets all the time.”

The full interview airs in ‘Open Court’ on CNN International today, Thursday 24 May at 17:30 BST, and will be repeated on Saturday 26 May at 0830 BST and 2200 BST.

 

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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.