Even though the Chinese took it in straight sets – 6-4, 6-4 – the clash was by no means a walkover, lasting as it did for almost an hour-and-a-half. The Russian, who had been unseeded after plunging down the rankings due to an injury lay-off, conceded six breaks of serve during the match.

Sharapova regarded the grass tournament as preparation for this year’s Wimbledon. Despite not being in her best condition, Sharapova recently made it to the French Open quarterfinals and the semifinal in Birmingham.

Li, the highest-ranked player left in the competition, will face Czech Magdalena Rybarikova, who beat Sania Mirza of India in the other semifinal.