Sharapova gets the cold shoulder in Russia

Russia easily recaptured the Fed Cup title from last year's surprise winners Italy by thrashing them 4-0 in the Moscow final over the weekend.

Even without Maria Sharapova, who was nursing a shoulder injury, the Russians, led by world number two Svetlana Kuznetsova and fifth-ranked Anna Chakvetadze, were too strong for the Italians, who do not have anyone in the top 24.

Despite the injury, Sharapova, who has yet to play for Russia in the Fed Cup, arrived in Moscow last week amid the usual fanfare, saying she wanted to give her support.

The world number four, clad in the Russian team outfit, was seen exuberantly cheering her team mates during the two-day tie, then joined them for a victory lap around the court holding a big Russian flag.

But despite her efforts, the Siberian-born player was given the cold shoulder by the rest of the team.

Most of the local media also saw the hoopla surrounding Sharapova's visit as nothing more than a PR campaign, designed to boost her goodwill image in Russia.

The Florida-based 20-year-old has never made a secret of her desire to play in the Olympics and for that she must make herself available for Fed Cup duty.

"Her presence in Moscow certainly didn't hurt," an ITF official told Reuters on Sunday. "She was injured and couldn't play, but by being here she clearly demonstrated her commitment to the Fed Cup and that will certainly enhance her chances (of playing at next year's Olympics). It's a big plus for her."

More photos of Maria in Moscow in our photoalbum!