Wimbledon 2011: Maria Sharapova into the Semifinals in an Hour

Going into this match, former Wimbledon champion, Maria Sharapova faced little challenge from her opponents. Every match that she played to this point, she won in straight sets.

The greatest challenge that she faced would have to have been 17-year-old Laura Robson, who was able to force a tiebreaker. However, even with the skill set of Robson, Sharapova was able to come away with the win.

But the question remained: would the small in stature yet big in power Dominika Cibulkova be the first real challenge for Sharapova? Could she stop Sharapova on her quest to win her second Wimbledon title?

The question appeared relevant and feasible since she had defeated the No. 1 player Caroline Wozniacki to reach this quarterfinal.

The answer, however: not by a longshot

Before the set really got started, Sharapova had already broken Cibulkova. Though she was trying, it was simply not enough to present any sort of challenge to Sharapova. Cibulkova was only able to get one point. Sharapova's dominance resulted in her winning the first set, 6-1. It only took 27 minutes.

The second set was not any better for Cibulkova. Much like the first set, Sharapova was able to break Cibulkova early and hold. Once again, the scoreboard was point-heavy in Sharapova's favor. Sharapova went on to win the set, 6-1. This set only took 33 minutes.

Match Time: 1:00

Sharapova will now face the German, Sabine Lisicki in the semifinals.