Maria Sharapova Says She Enjoys The Team Atmosphere In The IPTL

Maria Sharapova of the Manila Mavericks team hits the ball during the women's single match against Ana Ivanovic of the Indian Aces at the International Premier Tennis League in Manila November 29, 2014. Ivanovic won over Sharapova. REUTERS/Romeo Rano — Maria Sharapova of the Manila Mavericks team hits the ball during the women's single match against Ana Ivanovic of the Indian Aces at the International Premier Tennis League in Manila November 29, 2014. Ivanovic won over Sharapova. Reuters

Maria Sharapova visited Manila, Philippines for the inaugural International Premier Tennis League, or IPTL. The Russian tennis superstar leads the Manila Mavericks, alongside Andy Murray, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Daniel Nestor, Kirsten Flipkens, Treat Huey, and former World No. 1 Carlos Moya. Sharapova, who is not used to being part of a team, reportedly enjoys the experience she is having with the IPTL tournament.

In an interview with a local Philippine news outlet, Sharapova has voiced her delight of playing for the IPTL. She said that the experience she had in the Manila leg of the tournament has left her impressed and overwhelmed.

"I think that's why I enjoyed it, it's very traditional," Sharapova said. "The best thing in this experience is the team atmosphere."

The 27-year-old Grand Slam champion said that the experience in the IPTL tournament is a lot different from what they always do, but she likes it. She said it is nice to be able to have a huddle with fellow tennis players and cheer for each other.

Sharapova, who has not competed in a doubles event in a long time, paired with Murray in the mixed doubles match. She said that it was the first time that she has teamed up with the Scot. Although Sharapova and Murray had not been successful in their mixed doubles matches in IPTL's Manila Leg, she said that the experience has been a pleasurable one because she doesn't get to pair up with other tennis greats that very often.

Sharapova also talked about her plans for the 2015 season. She said that her main goal is to try to be healthy all throughout the season.

IPTL Singapore Schedule

Dec. 2 - Micromax Indian Aces vs. UAE Royals

Dec. 2 - Singapore Slammers vs. Manila Mavericks

Dec. 3 - Manila Mavericks vs. UAE Royals

Dec. 3 - Singapore Slammers vs. Micromax Indian Aces

Dec. 4 - Manila Mavericks vs. Micromax Indian Aces

Dec. 4 - Singapore Slammers vs. UAE Royals

Current Standings (Place/Points)

Micromax Indian Aces (1/12)

UAE Royals (2/10)

Manila Mavericks (3/7)