World number two Maria Sharapova successfully defended the WTA Porsche Grand Prix title on Sunday after beating China’s Li Na in the final 6-4, 6-3. It was an interesting match-up between the past two French Open champions – Li (2011), Sharapova (2012).
This is Sharapova’s 29th career title and second of the 2013 season. She became the first player to defend the Stuttgart title since Lindsey Davenport in 2004.
“I thought it’d be the toughest match of the tournament, but I played my best tennis today,” Sharapova said. “I was able to step it up.”
Since this event last year, Sharapova has compiled a 23-1 claycourt with her only loss coming from Serena Williams in Madrid.
Despite the loss, Li remains optimistic.
“I’m a little sad to lose,” Li said. “But it’s a pretty good start to my clay-court season.”
