Sharapova claims underdog status against Wozniacki (Guardian)

Maria Sharapova has declared herself the underdog in her blockbuster third round clash with Australian Open defending champion Caroline Wozniacki, despite having five Grand Slam titles to the Dane’s one.

Sharapova has struggled since returning from a drugs ban in 2017 and is seeded 30th at the tournament, while Wozniacki is third seed after claiming her maiden major at Melbourne Park last year.

But the 31-year-old Russian has been in sizzling form at this year’s tournament, showing glimpses of her ruthless best in dropping only three games in the first two rounds.

Asked who was favourite for Friday’s match, Sharapova conceded she was the underdog. Read more