Maria Sharapova sweeps into next round of French Open

(GETTY IMAGES)

Maria Sharapova swept into the second round of the French Open today for the loss of just three games against Mirjana Lucic.

The Russian won the last nine games to cruise through 6-3 6-0 in 56 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Seventh-seeded Sharapova needs to win at Roland Garros to complete a career grand slam and her opening performance suggested she will be a major contender.

After an even start, Sharapova raised her intensity and blew her Croatian opponent away.

She broke for a 4-3 lead and again to take the first set.

The second set was more one-sided with Lucic beginning to miss as she attempted to match Sharapova's power and depth from the back of the court.

Sharapova broke twice to establish a 4-0 lead and wrapped it up when Lucic sprayed a backhand wide.

Next up for the former world number one is a second-round clash with Frenchwoman Caroline Garcia.