Sharapova won't believe the hype

Maria Sharapova is determined not to get caught up in the hype which is sure to follow the Wimbledon champion on her return to the All England Club next week.

The Russian teen beauty - an ad man’s dream - was certainly an exciting prospect at SW19 last year, but no-one expected her to make it all the way to the final, where she beat two-time champion Serena Williams.

Twelve months on, however, and Sharapova, now ranked number two in the world, will be under the spotlight from the moment she steps out for her first-round clash against Nuria Llagostera Vives of Spain.

“A year has gone by like it was yesterday, and it is amazing how fast things have changed. Now, I am so well-known,” the young Russian reflected.

“It is normal that because I am the defending champion and number two in the world, a lot of people are going to expect you to win and defend your title.

“I am human, though, and you cannot win every time – but for sure I will be doing my best.”