Maria Sharapova still making noise

MELBOURNE, Australia -- Maria Sharapova is not going to turn down the volume for just anyone.

Eighth-ranked Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland criticized Sharapova Tuesday for the shrieks she makes when she strikes the ball, describing them as "annoying" and "just too loud."

Radwanska had just lost her quarterfinal to Victoria Azarenka, who also makes a loud noise when she hits the ball.

Sharapova was not amused.

When told about Radwanska's comments after her quarterfinal win over Ekaterina Makarova on Wednesday, the fourth-seeded Russian asked rather icily, "Isn't she back in Poland already?"

She added she's not about to make any changes to her playing style.

"I've been the same over the course of my career," she said. "No one important enough has told me to change or do something different. I've answered it many times before. I'm sure I'll answer it many more times ahead. I'm OK with that."

The WTA said this week it is looking at ways to deter players from incorporating grunts or screeches into their hitting motion, noting that "some fans find it bothersome."

Azarenka has been mimicked by the crowds in Melbourne for her hooting noises while hitting the ball.

So perhaps fans should prepare some earplugs: Azarenka and Sharapova face each other in the championship Saturday.

Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press