'Still a lot of fire': Sharapova accepts Brisbane wildcard

Former world number one Maria Sharapova said Tuesday she still had "a lot of fire" as she attempts to resurrect her career after an injury-plagued 2019.

The five-time major winner will open her 2020 campaign in Brisbane after being awarded a wildcard by organisers in preparation for the Australian Open later in January.

"To be fair when I was younger I never saw myself playing past 30," the 32-year-old Russian told reporters in Brisbane.

"But I still feel there is a lot in me to give. I still have a lot of fire in me and I am big competitor."
"But I have had a fairly good off season and I am motivated to compete. At this point in my career when I have that feeling, it's a good sign."