Sharapova Returns!

Maria Sharapova made a formidable start to the hardcourt season, the US Open champion crushing Thai Tamarine Tanasugarn 6-1, 6-3 in the second round of the San Diego Classic. The Florida-based Russian world No2 launched her title defense with apparent ease as she returned to competition for the first time since falling in the fourth round at Wimbledon to eventual champion Venus Williams. The two-time Grand Slam champion showedno sign of discomfort from the lingering shoulder worry which required a pain-killing injection in the spring. Sharapova skipped Russia’s Fed Cup tie last month against the United States amid harsh home criticism, saying she needed to rest her injury. The 20-year-old, who lifted last year’s San Diego title without the loss of a set, beating Kim Clijsters in the final, led a string of Russians into the third round. Three other seeded Russians and world No42 Maria Kirilenko all advanced in straight sets.

Maria Sharapova at the Children of Chernobyl Foundation (Photos)