Sharapova beats Petrova to win Generali

Maria Sharapova claimed her fifth title this year at the Linz Open when she beat holder and number two seed Nadia Petrova 7-5 6-2 in Sunday's all-Russian final.
She added to her wins at the U.S. Open, Indian Wells, San Diego and Zurich and by reaching the final guaranteed she would overtake Justine Henin-Hardenne as world number two on Monday.

Sharapova was forced to save two set points in the first set, but she held serve and then broke Petrova before serving out.

In the second set, Petrova, the defending champion, had few chances to break against Sharapova's strong serve.

Top-seeded Sharapova, who now has 15 career titles, is also in contention with the Belgian and Amelie Mauresmo of France to finish the season at number one, a position she last held on Oct. 23 2005.