Mauresmo and Sharapova battle into semi-finals

MADRID, (AFP) -

Maria Sharapova of Russia returns the ball to compatriot Svetlana Kuznetsovaduring their WTA Championships tennis tournament match in Madrid. REUTERS

Australian Open and Wimbledon champion Amelie Mauresmo cushioned the blow of losing her world number one ranking by beating top spot rival Justine Henin-Hardenne to reach the WTA Tour Championships semi-finals on Friday.

Mauresmo, the defending champion, scored a gripping 4-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 win which meant elimination from the yellow group for double former champion Martina Hingis.