It is Ladies’ Quarter-finals day today and also a good day to make some money selling ear plugs at the grounds.

First up on Centre Court was the former champion, Maria Sharapova (4) of Russia against Coco Vandeweghe of America. It was the first time that the two players faced each other on court.

Rain delayed the start of play for a short while but when Sharapova started shrieking, everyone knew it was showtime. She opened up proceedings and as with every first encounter, both players were jittery, resulting in some unforced errors and double faults, more so by Sharapova than Vandeweghe. But experience counts and Sharapova broke twice to take the first set.

Soon into the second set and Sharapova had a 3-1 lead. The crowd, who were cheering Vandeweghe on, had suddenly gone quiet, sensing that Sharapova was going to make quick work of the match. Sharapova opened the door for Vandeweghe with some unforced errors and the American stepped up to the plate, setting her sights on forcing a third set, which she did with some powerful shots and of course, a little help from Sharapova.

Enter the third set and in case you have forgotten, there is a reason why Maria Sharapova is still rated as one of the top and most feared competitors on the tennis circuit, is called the “Ice Queen” and if you do not move her from the baseline and make her run, you should just as well book your flight home before the match commences. Despite moments of grit by the American and Sharapova not playing at her best, the experienced Russian showed her muscle and won the match 6-3 6-7(3) 6-2.

Sharapova’s joy may however be short-lived as she will either do battle against her biggest rival, Serena Williams or Victoria Azarenka in the semi-finals.