 Sharapova also won the Birmingham doubles title in 2004 |
Maria Sharapova has confirmed she will aim for a hat-trick of titles at the DFS Classic in Birmingham next week. The 19-year-old will warm-up for Wimbledon at the event, which begins on Saturday, where she won back-to-back titles in 2004 and 2005.
The Russian joins a strong field that includes Daniela Hantuchova, Sania Mirza and veteran Martina Navratilova.
Sharapova won her first grass-court title in Birmingham in 2004 and then went on to capture the Wimbledon crown.
"I know Maria is excited to be defending her title and it will no doubt help her preparation for Wimbledon this year," said tournament director Marjory Howie.
"We have an excellent field of players entered this year and I'm sure the title will be hotly contested."
Sharapova has failed to reach a Grand Slam final since her triumph at the All England Club.
The world number four reached the last four at this year's Australian Open but has since struggled with a right ankle injury and was knocked out of the French Open in the fourth round.
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 