MANILA, Philippines – Maria Sharapova won hearts in her Manila debut but will leave the city heartbroken after losing twice in a row in her last stint in the inaugural International Premier Tennis League (IPTL).
The world no. 2 Sharapova lost again in the mixed doubles with Andy Murray.
But unlike Friday when they showed some toughness to come back and made it close in the end, this time, they were handed a clinical 1-6 loss.
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Not even the goading of the electric home crowd could lift up their spirits as Sharapova and Murray, two great singles players, struggled mightily against mixed doubles Grand Slam winners Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza.
“I only played doubles when I was younger. It was my first time to play with Andy so that was a lot of fun. It’s always nice when two singles players come together to do something out there especially against players that are very good at doubles and have won Grand Slam titles,” Sharapova said.
Still reeling from that loss and the heavy pressure on her shoulder to score a 6-0 win, Sharapova could not sustain a great start. World no. 5 Ana Ivanovic evened the score in the next game and went on a roll after that and took a comfortable 4-1 lead.
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Sharapova showed some signs of writing another epic comeback when she rallied to come within two, 3-5. But Ivanovic was more experienced than Kristina Mladenovic, who squandered a 5-2 lead to Sharapova last Friday.
Ivanovic killed a Sharapova comeback with the Happiness power point to clinch the win.
“She played really well today and their whole team was really competitive and we’re really into it and brought a lot of energy to the court,” Sharapova said.
The Russian tennis star though will no longer have the chance to re-write the heartbreaking ending to her first Manila stint as she will return to Russia to prepare for next year’s ATP Tour leaving the Manila Mavericks one superstar less for the rest of the tour.
“Unfortunately, I only committed to play two matches. Originally, I was only supposed to play one but I was asked to play the second one. I don’t think I will not be able to play a third one as I got to get back home and prepare for next year,” Sharapova said.
But the country made an indelible mark in her heart that she is looking forward to return next year.
“I’ve had an amazing time. It’s amazing country with really beautiful, beautiful people. I think it’s the most generous country I’ve ever been in. Everyone made my trip fantastic and I hope I’d be back next year,” Sharapova said.