Russian Maria Sharapova, the 17-year-old Wimbledon champion, promptly defeated Kristina Brandi of Puerto Rico 6-1, 6-4, yesterday in Montreal in her opening match at the Rogers Cup.

Maria, who is the third youngest champion at SW19, said about her last game: "It was a little bit up and down. I never expect to play my best tennis in my first match, but I did everything I had to do to win."...

Sharapova's looks have sparked comparisons to compatriot Anna Kournikova, who failed to win any WTA titles. However, Masha (her Russian nickname) credits her on-court success with bringing her fame. "But that's what happens when you win. I love to win and these are just the things I have to kind of absorb," she said.