The Russian wore a bandage on her right shoulder and wasted three match points in the second set before being taken to a third set.
Sharapova hadn’t played a singles match on tour since July 30. She had surgery on a torn rotator cuff about two months later. She played a doubles match in March, losing in Indian Wells, Calif.
The three-time Grand Slam tournament winner and former No. 1 player is now ranked No. 126. She has missed the last two majors.
Also on NBCSports.com
Ventre: Did we learn anything new about Lakers?
Celizic: Ready or not, Vick's bid to return begins
Preakness: Filly gives boost to racing | Video | Images
Clement: Ward reason ’Canes Cup threat | Playoff previews
Robinson: Are Royals for real? It doesn't look like it
Sharapova to play singles in Warsaw next week
Wallace ready for his chance
Crew, Rapids meet at early crossroads
