For all her undoubted talent, Maria Sharapova spent last season in the shadows of Venus and Serena Williams and Justine Henin. But in the Australian Open in January she looked a worthy champion as she banished her poor expectations and soared while her main threats buckled under the weight of their hefty expectations.

Sharapova remains undefeated in what could be her best year yet. The Russian has captured the Australian Open and Doha titles already and, though she did lose to Venus Williams in an exhibition tournament in Hong Kong, there is no doubt she is on a high.

With her astonishing success of late, Sharapova has transformed from the hunter to the hunted - and it’s clear that Henin and the Williams sisters are all itching to be the first to knock her off her high horse. Although her main rivals are making progress, if Maria can sustain her confidence she will have a good shot at winning Indian Wells, Miami, Wimbledon, the US Open and the season-ending championships.

'With her astonishing success of late, Sharapova has transformed from the hunter to the hunted.'


The Russian must keep going with her outstanding form as her incredible drive will undoubtedly be put to the test. It isn’t ideal for her to compete at Wimbledon just after the clay court season as there is every opportunity to lose matches - and confidence - on her weakest surface.

It will be extremely tough for her to win Wimbledon this year as the competition make great efforst to peak at what is the most prestigious tournament of the year. She knows all too well how to get herself going for the US Open and the 2006 champion is likely to put on a good show for the hustle and bustle of New York.

Of course, the sheer unpredictability of women's tennis means anything can happen. Either Williams sister can show up at Wimbledon with no proof of decent form and destroy the competition in the blink of an eye. But Maria can’t think like that as it would only lead to her downfall. If she wants to fend off those two, she must remain optimistic.

It will be interesting to see who breaks her winning streak - my money is on one of the big names and the help of a clay court - but for the time being you just have to admire Sharapova's form and composure. Her strong mentality is sure to guarantee more success this year and she is more than ready to take on any challenge.