Sharapova needed to save two match points before finally overcoming compatriot Alexandra Panova 6-1 4-6 7-5 in similarly steamythough it wasn’t as warm as last yearconditions.
Sharapova struck 43 unforced errors in the final two sets but crucially for the five-time grand slam champion, she produced forehand winners on the match points with Panova serving at 5-4 in the third.
That game was a missed opportunity for the 150th-ranked qualifier, and Panova also led by two breaks in the third at 4-1.
Sharapova, who is attempting to win a first major in seven years outside Roland Garros, was left both relieved and annoyed.
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“Trying to use any chance, any match, any tournament. It’s going well.”
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