• AEGON Classic

Li trumps Sharapova for maiden grass title

ESPN staff
June 13, 2010
Na Li has won her last two matches against Maria Sharapova © Getty Images
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Chinese No. 1 Na Li beat former champion Maria Sharapova to win the first grass court title of her career at the AEGON Classic in Birmingham.

Sharapova, who won back-to-back titles in 2004 and 2005 at the Edgbaston Priory Club, had revenge on her mind, having been beaten by Li in last year's semi-finals. But it was the top seed who claimed her second career victory over the former world No. 1 in straight sets, 7-5 6-1.

In a tense opening encounter, Sharapova was let down by her serve, hitting six double faults as Li piled on the pressure, forcing the Russian to save six break points.

But the second set was an entirely different story as Sharapova won just seven points as Li wrapped up victory in an hour and 19 minutes.

"Last year I beat Maria in the semi-finals and then was so excited I forgot I had another match," said Li, who was upset by world No. 58 Magdalena Rybarikova in last year's final. "I'm excited again. If I had another match this time, I think I would probably lose that too."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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