Australian Open 2012: Maria Sharapova Can't Afford Another Finals Disappointment

Maria Sharapova used to be one of the most feared female tennis players in the world. She has not always played to her full potential, but her appearance in the 2012 Australian Open finals against Victoria Azarenka is another chance for her to remind the world why she was once so great. 

When she first exploded on the scene, Sharapova was an imposing physical specimen. She had long limbs that made it easier for her to cover more ground than an average female, and she had great success at a young age. 

Her first grand slam title came at Wimbledon in 2004, when she was just 17 years old. She added the U.S. Open and Australian Open titles to her collection in 2006 and 2008, but has had very little Grand Slam success since that time. 

A big part of the problem for Sharapova has been injuries, which really took away her power serve. She has had to switch up her game in her "old" age. 

As Jon Wertheim of Sports Illustrated wrote, her victory over Petra Kvitova in the semifinals was exactly the kind of performance she needed to build her confidence for this match.

"

"Her various sponsors may cast her as the imperious, elegant blond. But here's the truth: She is a back-alley brawler.

And this truth was in full effect Thursday, in the second Australian Open women's semifinal. Sharapova's game has never been stylistic, even before shoulder surgery wreaked havoc on her serve. She is not particularly athletic or flexible. Her net game verges on nonexistent. But she has won titles, achieved the top ranking and revived her career because of this: She is a nasty fighter."

"

This Australian Open final will be the perfect opportunity for her to showcase her unique abilities one more time. But if she is unable to come through yet again, where does she go from here?

Sharapova used to be great. She used to be a superstar who had all the skills necessary to dominate the tour for as long as she wanted. 

Things did not work out for her, and she is getting another shot at reclaiming her former glory. She can't have another letdown on this stage. It is time for her to breakthrough before time completely passes her by. 

Follow @adamwells1985