Maria Sharapova pays tribute to retiring Kim Clijsters

Maria Sharapova has heaped praise upon Belgian tennis player Kim Clijsters.

Clijsters, 29, will retire from the sport following the conclusion of the ongoing US Open in New York.

Despite appreciating her ability on the court, Sharapova has also credited Clijsters for the way that she has conducted herself away from the sport.

"What's there to say about Kim? There are so many great things besides the fact she's been an incredible tennis player and champion," said Sharapova.

"She's someone that went away from the sport to commit herself to being a mother and a good wife and then coming back and being a professional and winning a few more Grand Slams."

Clijsters has won four Grand Slam titles during her career.