Health & Fitness
Defending Champs Nadal, Sharapova Both Upset in Indian Wells
Defending singles champions Rafael Nadal and Maria Sharapova apparently caught a case of the Mondays, as both were upset at the BNP Paribas Open.
Alexandr Dolgopolov of Ukraine toppled World No. 1 Rafael Nadal in an intense match, 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(5).
Dolgopolov had a 5-2 advantage in the third set, but was broken at love with a chance to serve for the match.
"I knew (Nadal's) going to make me play that game and not miss much, and I just gave it away," Dolgopolov said. "That was all on me. I didn't serve, didn't play well, and I just tried to forget about that and come back."
Nadal, who lost his second match of the season, was denied a ninth straight semi-final appearance at Indian Wells.
"I had enough breaks to win the match, but I didn't play enough well from the baseline then to be solid with my serve," Nadal said. "Is not a problem with my
serve. Was more problem with my baseline shots. I didn't go for the points."
Earlier in the day, defending women's champion Maria Sharapova was ousted by Italian Camila Giorgi, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5.
Sharapova, who won at Indian Wells in 2006, committed 58 unforced errors in the match.
"I did not play a good match at all, and, you know, I started very poorly," Sharapova said. "Never played against her, but she's someone that doesn't give you much rhythm."
Giorgi, whose on-court outfits are all designed by her mom, was thrilled with the victory.
"It was really good match. I think so. I mean, wasn't too consistent, but was great," Giorgi said.
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