World number two Maria Sharapova says she’s expecting a difficult encounter when she faces China’s Li Na in the 2013 Australian Open semifinals on Thursday.
The Russian has a good recent record against Li, however Sharapova said they’d all been tight contests and was expecting an improved opponent too.
“I’ve beaten her the last few times that we’ve played, but they’ve always been really good matches, really tough matches,” Sharapova said.
“I certainly expect it in the next one. She’s had a great start to the year and is playing really well.
“She was the most-improved player towards the end of last year as well, so that will be hopefully a high-quality semi.”
Meanwhile, Li refused to dwell on the past after brushing aside Poland’s Agnieszka Radwanska 6-3, 7-5.
“Last year (has) already passed,” Li said. “It should be a tough match.”