Sharapova beats Petrova to claim Linz title

LINZ: Maria Sharapova claimed her fifth title this year at the Linz Open when she beat holder and number two seed Nadia Petrova 7-5 6-2 in Sunday's all-Russian final.   

She added to her wins at the US Open, Indian Wells, San Diego and Zurich and by reaching the final guaranteed she would overtake Justine Henin-Hardenne as world number two on Monday.   

Top-seeded Sharapova, who now has 15 career titles, is also in contention with the Belgian and Amelie Mauresmo of France to finish the season at number one, a position she last held on Oct. 23 2005.