Kristina Mladenovic beats Maria Sharapova in the semis of the Stuttgart Open. This was Sharapova’s first defeat after her return from 15 months ban after having tested positive for meldonium.
Sharapova, had won the first set but lost the match 3-6 7-5 6-4. This lose will mean that for the French Open she would again have to rely on the wildcard option about which she will know on 16th May. The French Open starts on 28th May. Sharapova, has also received wildcards for upcoming tournaments in Rome and Madrid.
Stuttgart Open: Kristina Mladenovic beats Maria Sharapova in the semis
Sharapova had ample control at the start of the contest and in only 38 minutes won the first set. At start of the second set Sharapova despite 11 double faults was in control, however, Mladenovic held her nerve, improved her game on the baseline and came back into the match with a 7-5 win in the second set. In the third set Mladenovic maintained her spirit.
Mladenovic, ranked as world number 19 will face Laura Siegemund from Germany in the final to be played on Sunday.
