Sponsors Suspend Maria Sharapova Over Admission To Failing Drug Test

by Benson Agoha | Sports

* Maria Sharapova lives in Florida, United States

Corporate sponsors have announced their suspension of Russian Tennis Star, Maria Sharapova after she admitted in a press conference that she failed the test and takes full responsibility.

The star spoke in a conference from California saying she had been given a medicine that was not on the banned list for the past 10 years by her Doctor, but which had suddenly been added to the banned list in January 2016.

She said she did not want to end her career this way and hopes she would be given another to play the sport she loves.

Maria Sharapova Admits Failed Drug Test.

But her statement did not stop Nike and watch maker Tag Heuer from ending their relationship, even if temporarily.

Nike, which has had a sustained relationship with Sharapova since she was 11 years old, said the suspension will be in place while the investigation continues and that they will continue to monitor events.

"“We are saddened and surprised by the news about Maria Sharapova. We have decided to suspend our relationship with Maria while the investigation continues," Nike said, adding "We will continue to monitor the situation."

It is thought that other sponsors like American Express, Porsche, Evian and Avon are considering ending their relationship with the star.

Sharapova, has won the Grand Slam five times. She may face a career-ending ban of up to four years.

* You Can't Just Do It. Maria Sharapova in action wearing
a Nike vest. (Credit: BBC)