London - A pair of world-class sponsors were Thursday backing Maria Sharapova as the five-time grand slam winner fights for her rehabilitation in tennis after being banned for two years following a positive anti-doping test.
The former No. 1 has said she will appeal the sanction handed down by the ITF after testing positive at the Australian Open for the newly banned Latvian medicine meldonium. But the ITF admitted that the 29-year-old had not intentionally violated any rules.
Longtime racquet sponsor Head came out with a strong statement of support. The company also gave their top women's ace a contract extension in March when Sharapova pre-emptedly revealed her positive test.
Clothing giant Nike, which had suspended promotional activities with Sharapova, is back on board after a change of corporate heart in the wake of the tough ITF punishment which has caused controversy throughout the game. – DPA