Indian Wells: Sharapova upset by defending champion Pennetta

The defending champion from Italy sent World No 2 Maria Sharapova crashing out of Indian Wells on Tuesday, winning a three-set, two-hour marathon after almost letting her emotions get the best of her

Indian Wells (United States): There is nothing like a good cry to get Flavia Pennetta in a winning frame of mind.


A dejected Maria Sharapova walks out of the court. Pic/AFP

The defending champion from Italy sent World No 2 Maria Sharapova crashing out of Indian Wells on Tuesday, winning a three-set, two-hour marathon after almost letting her emotions get the best of her.

Pennetta got off to a rough start in the opening set and it wasn't until after she broke down emotionally that she says she was able to rally for the 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 fourth round victory.


Flavia Pennetta 

"Sometimes a woman has these moments," said Pennetta, adding she felt "refreshed" after leaving the court and going into the tunnel area under the stands, where she let loose with a screaming, sobbing and crying episode.

Serena enters quarters
Meanwhile, World No 1 Serena Williams defeated American compatriot Sloane Stephens 6-7 (3/7), 6-2, 6-2 to reach the quarter-finals.

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