Week #08: Sharapova wins Doha and remains unbeaten in 2008

Maria Sharapova remains unbeaten in 2008 after her victory in Doha and conquered her 2nd title of the year after US Open. Sharapova enjoyed an easy draw as she didn't have to face any Top 20 player. Despite the great field, many top players showed that they are not at their best, therefore the tournament was plenty of upsets and from the Top 10 just Sharapova and Jankovic reached the quarters. On the other hand, two of the best players in this 2008 season beggining, Agnieszka Radwanska and Na Li, confirmed their good form reaching the semis. But the most nice susrprise was the recovery of former Top 10 Vera Zvonareva which, after three seasons plenty of injuries and physical problems, progressed to the final where she even managed to get a set from Sharapova.

In Bogota the week was also plenty of surprises, as three qualifiers reached the semifinals (Bettina Jozami, Nuria Llagostera and Carla Suarez), which were completed with Maria Emilia Salerni in an Spanish/Argentinian affair. Nuria Llagostera completed a fantastic week winning 8 matches in a row without dropping a set. After missing 2006 season due to a wrist injury and a progressive comeback on 2007 limited by physical problems, the Spanish is finally back on Top 100 after winning her 2nd career WTA title.

Doha (QAT), Tier I, $2,500,000
Final: Maria Sharapova (RUS) def Vera Zvonareva (RUS) 6/1 2/6 6/0

Bogota (COL), Tier III, $185,000
Final: Nuria Llagostera (ESP) def. Maria Emilia Salerni (ARG) 6/0 6/4