Sharapova looks forward to Olympics

Maria Sharapova struck a philosophical tone after her dreams of securing a 25th WTA title at her first Paris Open were shattered by German Angelique Kerber on Friday.

Sharapova, who lost to Victoria Azarenka in the Australian Open final, struggled for consistency over the course of her 6-4, 6-4 upset.

“Of course, in every tournament you want to get to the final,” said Sharapova, who is set to rise one place to second in the WTA ranking tomorrow.

“You also have to be realistic. Sometimes you have a day that isn’t a good day.”

While a fourth major title remains high on her list of priorities, she revealed that she was particularly excited about the Olympic tournament at London’s All England Club next summer.

“The Olympics are very important,” she said.

“The grasscourt season is something I’m really looking forward to. Playing at Wimbledon twice in a row will be so special for all of us.

“I couldn’t compete in Beijing (in 2008) so I’m really looking forward to the whole experience – not just competing, but meeting the other athletes, watching the parade and all that.”