Sharapova on likely Shenzhen Open final against Halep: 'These are the meetings everyone is waiting for'

Sharapova on likely Shenzhen Open final against Halep: ‘These are the meetings everyone is waiting for’

At the press conference held after the match that saw her cruise into the semifinals of the Shenzhen Open, Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova spoke about the likely prospect of facing WTA No 1, Romania’s Simona Halep, as a meeting everyone is expecting.

“We both have one more tough match in front of us before we make it to the final, but these are the types of meetings everyone is waiting for, not only the players but also the public and tournament organisers. Of course, I want to play against the world number one and if this happens in the final it’s great,” Sharapova said at the press conference, News.ro reports.

Sharapova defeated former World No 33 Zarina Diyas in straight sets 6-3, 6-3 to reach the semifinals. Simona Halep also cruised past Arina Sabalenka, a tall player whom she described as ‘very strong, who hits well’ in two sets, 6-2, 6-2.

The Romanian will face fellow compatriot Irina Begu for a place in the final.

Asked to comment on Sharapova’s thoughts, Halep said: “I don’t think about the final, I think of what happens tomorrow, I have a tough match. I know Irina well, but I am ready to fight. If I reach the final again, I will be very happy.”