Defending champion Maria Sharapova has edged into the Madrid Open quarter-finals with a tough three-set victory over Caroline Garcia.
Despite seeing an early break of serve cancelled out, Sharapova converted three out of five break points to clinch the opening set 6-2.
However, plucky world number 28 Garcia fought back in the second with some savvy play around the court. The Frenchwoman opened up a 4-2 lead before coming through 6-4 to level the match.
Sharapova saved two break points at the start of the decider as Garcia threatened to end the Russian's reign, but the five-time Grand Slam champion found a decisive break late on to see off her opponent 6-2 4-6 7-5.
Waiting for Sharapova in the last eight of the tournament will be either Caroline Wozniacki or Agnieszka Radwanska.
Jack Prescott
