Petra Kvitova Beats Maria Sharapova for Wimbledon Title

Making her first return appearance to the grand stage after winning the event seven years prior, things didn't go as hoped for Maria Sharapova at the 2011 Wimbledon Women's Final on Sunday (July 2).

The well-known Russian beauty was upstaged by her lesser known Czech Republic counterpart, Petra Kvitova, who ended up victorious during the match at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club.

Miss Kvitova outplayed Miss Sharapova from the onset, as she battled through each and every challenge put forth by Miss Sharapova en route to a straight set 6-3, 6-4 win.

With the lack of big match experience not causing an issue, Petra's win came before a full crowd including tennis greats such as Billie Jean King, Lindsay Davenport, Amelie Mauresmo and Martina Navratilova, with politician Condoleeza Rice and actress Anne Hathaway also among those watching on from the stands.

From the Czech Republic, the 21-year-old Kvitova made it to the semifinals at Wimbledon last year. Those who watched her perform on Saturday feel like this first major title win won't be her last.

''I don't think this is the only time she'll win here,'' said 18-time major winner Martina Navratilova. ''It's very exciting. A new star.'' (FOX Sports)

As for Maria Sharapova, the Russian tennis star first wowed the sports world when she defeated two-time champion Serena Williams at the Wimbledon final in 2004. She was just 17 years old at the time.  

From here she went on to win Grand Slam singles titles at both the 2006 US Open and the 2008 Australian open.

Pictures of Maria Sharapova and Petra Kvitova playing the Wimbledon Women's Final:

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