Indian Wells, CA (Sports Network) - Maria Sharapova and Caroline Wozniacki
were both winners Friday, and the former world No. 1s will square off in the
final of the $5.186 million BNP Paribas Open.
Sharapova took down 13th-seeded Maria Kirilenko, 6-4, 6-3, in an all-Russian
semifinal on the hardcourts at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.
With the victory, Sharapova overtook Victoria Azarenka for the No.2 spot in
the world rankings. Sharapova lost to Azarenka in last year's final here, but
won the title in 2006.
Earlier Friday, Wozniacki overcame a disastrous opening set to upend fourth-
seeded Angelique Kerber of Germany 2-6, 6-4, 7-5. The eighth-seeded Dane
spoiled a chance to end the match on her serve, but broke right back to reach
her first final of the year.
Wozniacki, who is 2-4 in her career against Sharapova, won here in 2011 and
was the runner-up in 2010.
Saturday's champion will be awarded $1 million.
The Sports Network