Maria Sharapova played a near-perfect second set against Serena Williams during her 6-3, 7-6(5) loss in Saturday night’s Australian Open women’s singles final, but despite the loss, and the decade-long losing streak that the American now owns against the Russian, Sharapova feels like she’s making progress.

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“I actually believe that we attract what we're ready for,” Sharapova told reporters after the final. “Yes, I haven't won against her many times, but if I'm getting to the stage of competing against someone like Serena, I'm doing something well. I'm setting up a chance to try to beat her and it hasn't happened.

“I'm not just going to go home without giving it another chance. That's just not who I am and not who I was raised to be. I'm a competitor. If I'm getting to the finals of Grand Slams and setting myself up to play a match against Serena, I mean, I know it sounds -- maybe you're telling me I'm wrong -- but I'm happy to be in that position. I love the competition. I love playing against the best, and at the moment she is.”

Sharapova, 27 years old and a five-time Grand Slam champion, has lost 16 consecutive matches against Williams and managed only two sets over the ten year span.

Despite the streak, Sharapova has kept a positive attitude and says she loves to be a part of prime-time tennis. “I like the battle,” she said, I do. I mean, it's frustrating to be the one going home, as I said, with the small trophy. But I do love the battle. I love high-quality tennis. I love being part of it. It's a lot better than watching it on TV. It's nice to be in the moment.”

Asked if she was getting closer to finally turning the tide against Williams, the Russian was quick to reply:

“If I keep setting up myself chances, absolutely.”

Photo Source: Corleve