Sharapova left 'speechless'

Maria Sharapova: A 'special' moment for the newly crowned No.1

Maria Sharapova was left 'speechless' after defeating Sara Errani to lift the French Open title and complete a career Grand Slam.

The victory capped a remarkable comeback for the Russian after many thought her career was all but over when she underwent shoulder surgery in 2008.

Having waited four years to climb back into the grand slam winner's circle, the 25-year-old dropped to her knees on the red clay and covered her face in disbelief in her moment of triumph.

Sharapova finally won the trophy on the red clay of Roland Garros, almost four years after dropping as low as 126th in the rankings.

But, the queen of women's tennis will climb back to the top of the rankings on Monday after she produced a power game which her Italian opponent failed to cope with, winning 6-3 6-2 in 89 minutes on a cool, blustery day in Paris.

Journey

"I'm really speechless. It's been such a journey for me to get to this stage."
Maria Sharapova on winning the French Open Quotes of the week

"I'm really speechless. It's been such a journey for me to get to this stage," Sharapova said during her victory speech on Philippe Chatrier Court.

"It took me many years to get to this stage, eight years ago was my breakthrough.

"I'm so happy to share this moment with you all. I cannot wait to be back. To be here and win this, even if it was my only grand slam, it would be just as special as if it was my fourth."

The Russian added this year's French Open title to championships at Wimbledon in 2004, the US Open in 2006 and the Australian Open in 2008 to become only the 10th woman to win all four major tournaments.

This was her 27th career title and it puts her in elite company, along with players such as Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, Serena Williams and Billie Jean King who are among those who have won all four majors.

Errani, who won the doubles title on Friday and will move into the top 10 in singles for the first time Monday, said: "I don't feel like top 10 but I will be top 10. It's incredible for me, I can't believe it and I'm so happy for that."