Schiavone hopes French Open title will inspire Azzuri at World Cup

Francesca Schiavone hopes her shock run to the French Open title could be a lucky omen for the Italy football team in South Africa.

Schiavone, who turns 30 this month, enjoyed a fairytale fortnight in Paris when she beat Australia's Samantha Stosur to win her first grand slam title.

She has hardly stopped smiling since that victory at Roland Garros, although she did come down to earth with a bump on Tuesday when she lost in the first round at the Eastbourne grasscourt championships.

Seeded two, she struggled to adapt to the skiddy turf and was overpowered by Romania's Sorana Cirstea 7-5 6-3.

"Thanks to (Italy coach) Marcelo Lippi and all the team," for their support, Schiavone, who received several messages from the world champions as they prepared for the opening game of the World Cup against Paraguay, told Reuters.

"I received plenty of good energy from them. Four years ago they won the World Cup so I think they are ready again and I am honoured if I'm an example to them."

Schiavone's volleying skills and use of spin should make her a dangerous opponent at Wimbledon as she attempts to follow up her exploits in Paris with a strong run.

"For Schiavo, nothing is impossible for sure but I don't know what will happen," she said. "But I'm curious what will happen and look forward to playing at Wimbledon.

"I love this sport so all the emotion and motivation come from inside and I show that on the court.