Sharapova won the Australian Open in 2008

Maria Sharapova played down her Australian Open chances after beating world number four Caroline Wozniacki in an exhibition match in Hong Kong.

The former world number one, who beat Zheng Jie on Wednesday, defeated the Dane 7-5 6-3 in her final match before the Australian Open on 18 January.

"It's a great field and a good test for the Australian Open," Sharapova said of the Hong Kong Classic tournament.

"Whether I have a good feeling or not, you never know the future."

The world number 14 was unable to defend her Australian Open crown last year after shoulder surgery kept her sidelined for nine months until May last year.

606: DEBATE Can Sharapova regain the Australian Open title this year?

But the 22-year-old Russian, who has also beaten Venus Williams this year, is being touted as a serious contender after an impressive start to the season.

Sharapova was 5-3 behind in the first set but a winning run of nine out of 10 games helped her go on to secure victory in 95 minutes.

"I have had three great matches against three different types of players," she said.

"It was a little up and down today, but overall it is definitely good to have these wins behind me."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version