Sharapova returns with easy win

Maria Sharapova returned after a two-week break with a straight-sets win over Barbora Zahlavova Strycova of the Czech Republic at Amelia Island.

The Russian pulled out of last week's Sony Ericsson Open with a shoulder injury, but admitted at the time that her heavy schedule was taking its toll.
However, Sharapova showed no ill effects in her first clay match of 2008 as she beat Strycova 6-1 6-3.

"Coming into the match you really don't know what to expect because you know your opponent has already had a few matches on clay, and this is your first match," said Sharapova.

"The most important thing today was just try to get used to the atmosphere on the court and also the opponent."