Maria Sharapova crashed out of the Australian Open at the first hurdle after losing 7-6 (7-4), 3-6, 6-4 to fellow Russian Maria Kirilenko on Monday.

The 2008 champion, who missed last year's tournament through injury, made 76 unforced errors and struggled on serve as the world No. 58 Kirilenko won in three hours and 20 minutes at Rod Laver Arena.

World No. 2 Dinara Safina looked shaky in her first round clash against Magdalena Rybarikova of Slovakia as she had 21 unforced errors and five double faults in the opening set alone.

 Maria Sharapova of Russia reacts during the first round match of women's singles against her compatriot Maria Kirilenko in 2010 Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park, Australia, Jan. 18, 2010. Sharapova lost 1-2

But the last year's runner-up was still able to prevail with a score line of 6-4, 6-4.

Safina will play either qualifier Regina Kulikova or Barbora Zahlavova Strycova of the Czech Republic in her next match.

 Dinara Safina of Russia hits a return during the first round match of women's singles agasint Magdalena Rybarikova of Slovakia in 2010 Australian Open at Hisense Arena in Melbourne, Australia, Jan. 18, 2010. Safina won 2-0

【体坛英语资讯：Sharapova knocked out, Safina struggles to win at Australian Open】相关文章：

★ 体坛资讯：Dynasty! Spurs win 4th NBA title

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Posh Spice tops Blackwell worst-dressed

★ 体坛英语资讯：Jazz, Spurs pull even with wins

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Hilton wants to name first child London

★ 体坛英语资讯：Olympic torch relay starts in Nagano

★ 体坛英语资讯：Hawks set for decider in Boston

★ 体坛英语资讯：China reaches final of Womens Asia Cup

★ 体坛英语资讯：Ferrari denies crisis after Aussie flop

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Von Teese is the new face of wonderbra

★ 体坛英语资讯：Davydenko left out of Davis Cup final singles