Three-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharpova started the 2010 season with a first-round loss to Maria Kirilenko at the Australian Open, but has now scored a very convincing victory at the International-level event called Regions Morgan Keegan Champs / Cellular South Cup.

Top-seeded Sharapova finished her second match of the season in just 51 minutes, losing only three points on her first serve and a total of two games to defeat world No.101 Shenay Perry 6-0 6-2 and reach the second round.

The Russian world No.15 is making her second appearance in Memphis. Six years ago she reached the semifinals at the tournament. (photo Mister E)

In November 2009 we confirmed Maria Sharapova's new boyfriend to be Slovenian-born Lakers player Sasha Vujacic.

Now we're having a photo update proving that the relationship is still in full swing. Read more »

Maria Sharapova is a part of an inventive and memorable Nike campaign called "Lace Up. Save Lives", designed to fight AIDS in Africa. You can contribute to the cause by lacing up a pair of (NIKE)RED laces in your favorite shoes. Of course, you first have to buy them.

All the profits from (NIKE)RED laces are split equally between The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, which funds AIDS programs that provide medicine for those living with HIV, and football-based community initiatives that deliver education and understanding around HIV/AIDS prevention. (source: Maria Sharapova's official website)

Here’s a bit of light talk away from the Australian Open. Nike has released new Nike Women Rock Victorious films featuring Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams. The films celebrate personal moments of victory and the dedication to training, and both players reveal what they consider their greatest wins. Just guess, they cited the same tournament!

Once again there was more fuss about a tennis dress than we actually got the chance to watch it in action: seed No.14 Maria Sharapova was defeated on the first occasion she wore her long-anticipated two-layer Nike dress.

The 2008 Australian Open champion lost the battle of two Russians and two Marias 7-6 (7-4) 3-6 6-4 as Maria Kirilenko advanced to the second round.

Sharapova, who missed last year's Australian Open because of a shoulder injury, committed 77 unforced errors and made her earliest exit at a Grand Slam since 2003, struggling with her serve and mobility.

"A bad day's not going to stop me from doing what I love. I'm still going to go back on the court and work hard and perform. I'll be back here on a Saturday of the second week, so you'll watch," said Sharapova, who is ranked 44 spots higher than Kirilenko. (photo: Getty Images)