On the same day Peyton Manning announced his retirement from the NFL at a press conference, many had speculated that a scheduled press conference for Maria Sharapova was for similar reasons. However, Sharapova did not announce her retirement at the press conference in Los Angeles.
Instead, she revealed the news that she had tested positive for a failed drug test at the Australian Open. At least she was able to keep her sense of humor in dropping the unexpected bombshell.
Here is Maria Sharapova's "fairly ugly carpet" quote. pic.twitter.com/BSKFR95plh
— Erick Fernandez (@ErickFernandez) March 7, 2016
In Sharapova’s press conference streamed live on her YouTube channel, she remarked that she had tested positive for the drug Meldonium. The tennis star said she had taken the substance since 2006 for “several health issues going on at the time,” including repeatedly getting sick and irregular EKG results. She went on to explain that she received a letter December 22nd from WADA about changes to the banned substance list for 2016 that she neglected to read, and that Meldonium was added.
Sharapova says she failed a drug test. Been taking same medicine for 10 years. On Jan 1st 2016, rules changed. Became prohibited substance
— Reem Abulleil (@ReemAbulleil) March 7, 2016
Sharapova made it to the quarterfinals of the Australian Open this year, losing in straight sets to top seed Serena Williams. Her announcement was definitely a shock to the tennis world.
Sharapova: takes full responsibility. “I made a huge mistake. I let the sport down. I let my fans down.” Hopes to be able to come back.
— WTA Insider (@WTA_insider) March 7, 2016
Absolutely shocked by that announcement! @WTA @MariaSharapova
— rennae stubbs (@rennaestubbs) March 7, 2016
Sharapova apologized to her fans and to the sport, also adding “I hope I will be given another chance to play this game.” She said she will be working with the International Tennis Federation on where she goes from here. The 28-year-old had recently withdrawn from the tournament at Indian Wells due to a forearm injury.
Oddly enough, there has been no announcement of any ban or suspension currently facing Sharapova from any governing body. When asked about a possible suspension at the press conference, Sharapova did not answer directly, instead reflecting about hoping to be able to come back and play tennis once again. With so few details known, there are more questions than answers for what her future in tennis is at this time.
