ROME -- Maria Sharapova rallied to beat 10th-seeded Carla Suarez Navarro 4-6, 7-5, 6-1 Sunday and win her third Italian Open title.
The victory gives Sharapova confidence on clay as she prepares to defend her title at Roland Garros, which starts next weekend.
Sharapova's first two titles in Rome came back-to-back in 2011 and 2012.
"It's always a special victory," Sharapova said during the trophy presentation. "It isn't my first time, but when I'm able to hold the trophy again, it brings back memories of winning it the first time."
Sharapova struggled for long stretches to figure out Suarez Navarro's variation of spins, slices and heavy topspin shots -- with a one-handed backhand that was difficult to read.
But once the second-seeded Sharapova started stepping into the court, attacking the Spaniard's serve and finding the corners, she took control.
The match lasted more than 2½ hours, and Sharapova hit 39 winners to Suarez Navarro's 12.
For her 35th career title, and 11th on clay, Sharapova celebrated mildly with a smile and a few fist pumps.
"I remember coming to Italy as a little girl, and this was one of the tournaments I dreamed of playing," Sharapova said. "Now to win it for a third time is very special."
Suarez Navarro was playing her third final of the year -- and for the third time she finished runner-up, following performances in Antwerp, Belgium, and Miami.