Sharapova takes Tokyo title

Maria Sharapova claimed the WTA Toray Pan Pacific Open title today after Jelena Jankovic was forced to retire in the final with a right wrist injury.

The unseeded Russian was 5-2 up in the first set when her seventh-seeded Serbian opponent signalled she could not continue with the contest.

Sharapova lost the first two games but stormed back to win the next five, which proved to be enough to secure her first crown since returning to the Tour following a 10-month absence with a shoulder injury.

“It was a tough start today. Jelena started off so strong,” admitted the 22-year-old. “It was my second final of the year and I was a bit nervous. But I played well enough this week to know I could give her a good match. I just wanted to keep fighting out there and unfortunately Jelena had to stop.

“I wish her a speedy recovery, and hopefully we can play in the final here next year.”