Maria Sharapova Defeats Simona Halep In Round Robin Play At 2015 WTA Finals

Maria Sharapova (click to enlarge)

Despite questions regarding her injury status and match readiness, Maria Sharapova has reached 2-0 in Red Group round robin play at the 2015 WTA Finals. The 5-time Major winner used a mid match hot streak to defeat top overall seed Simona Halep 6-4 6-4. Although nobody in the Red Group is yet assured of reaching the semifinal stage, Masha is in great position to be one of the final four. She is the only unbeatean player in the Red Group and thus holds her own destiny in her hands going into her final round robin match against Flavia Pennetta, who evened her round robin record to 1-1 by beating Agnieszka Radwanska. If Masha wins against Flavia, she’s in the semis. Even if she loses, she still has a chance based on tiebreaker scenarios. But best for her not to take any chances. However, keep in mind that Flavia will enter that match with a slight 3-2 advantage in head to head meetings with Sharapova. Also, with so much time away from match play, Masha is more prone to eventually have one of those days where her timing and consistency is off. I hope that doesn’t happen. Masha at least in the semifinal round is good for the tour.