But, so far in her career, spectators have appeared to accept that it is an inevitable part of her game. Until now.

The Russian was in the process of levelling scores at 1-1 in the Federation Cup tie against Israel on Saturday when the already boisterous crowd decided to fight back.

They imitated her grunts each time she hit the ball in her 6-0, 6-4 victory over Tzipi Obziler, reported The Independent.

Although they were eventually told to keep quiet by the umpire, Sharapova professed herself to be comfortable with it.

'I don't mind it,' she said. 'It brings out the best in me. I love the atmosphere, the crowd and their craziness.

'It is what we live for. I got really anxious and excited as I was close to finishing my first Fed Cup match.'

Russia eventually won the tie 4-1 to advance to the semi-finals.

In Beijing, China beat France 3-2 to reach the semi-finals for the first time.

They will meet five-time champions Spain in the semi-finals on April 26.

Spain took an unassailable 3-0 lead over Italy in Naples on Sunday.

The United States-Germany tie was deadlocked 1-1 after persistent rain in Southern California stopped play.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE