Sharapova into last eight at Tianjin Open

Former world number one Maria Sharapova has knocked out Poland's Magda Linette to enter the quarter-finals of the Tianjin Open on Thursday.

Maria Sharapova of Russia beats Poland's Magda Linette in two sets in their second round match of women's singles during 2017 WTA Tianjin Tennis Open in Tianjin, China, 12 October 2017. [Photo: Xinhua]

This marks the third quarter-final of the year for the five-time grand slam champion.

The 30-year-old is targeting a first title since returning from a doping ban.

Defending champion Peng Shuai is also through, knocking out her compatriot Wang Xinyu in two sets.

Peng will now face Sara Tormo, who beat Wang Yafan in a three-set affair.

China's Zhu Lin has also advanced, cruising past Hsieh Su-wei from Chinese Taipei in straight sets.