Maria Sharapova ousts Brit Johanna Konta in Wimbledon first round

Maria Sharapova's Wimbledon campaign has begun with a triumph after knocking out British hopeful Johanna Konta.

The 2004 champion managed to see out a 6-2 6-2 victory on Centre Court, but it was a close contest in the early stages of the clash.

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Sharapova almost lost her opening serve, but she was able to keep composed to grab a crucial break point and take a 3-1 lead.

From that point on, the 28-year-old took control of the grass court and claimed another break to give herself a one-set lead in 39 minutes.

Konta struck instantly in the second set to go a break up, but Sharapova drew on her experience to snatch a double break in response.

The Brit pushed Sharapova to two break points in the seventh game, but the former world number one was able to hold before eventually wrapping up the contest.