Russian Maria Sharapova has had a frustrating year to forget but feels her fitness is returning and is confident of making a big splash at next week's Australian Open.

Currently ranked 14, the 22-year-old said her injury lay-off has taught her never to take anything for granted.
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"You realise how fortunate you are be back. But there's no better healer than time. I'm getting stronger. I'm ready for the challenges in Australia," she said at the Hong Kong Classic team tournament.

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