Men’s world number one Andy Murray has said that the media attention has led to Maria Sharapova getting so many wildcards offers to events after her dope suspension.
Reportedly, Sharapova will also be given a wildcard by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) to play at next month’s Aegon Classic in Birmingham.
Sharapova had a doping suspension for 15 months. She currently ranks 258 in the world ranking. Her rank is very low to even qualify for the event, and the organizers have given her the wild card.
The former world number one has played two tournaments through wildcards since her return losing in the semi-finals at last month’s Stuttgart Open and falling to Eugenie Bouchard in the second round of the Madrid Open last week.
Murray told BBC sport, “I do think the tournaments are going to do what they think is going to sell the most tickets, give them the most coverage, get the most people into the watch.”
“I’m sure the LTA saw the coverage that was given, … the amount of media covering it, and think that’s what’s best for the tournament in Birmingham. But I’m sure it’s split a lot of opinions.
“I’m sure the discussions about whether to give it or not were long… but they’ve obviously done what they think is right for that event and maybe haven’t thought as much about the wider implications.”
The thirty-year-old Russian tennis ace had last played in the Wimbledon warm-up event in 2010.
Sharapova’s hopes of playing in this year’s Wimbledon would all depend on the meeting of tournament organizers held on June 20 unless the Russian finds form in upcoming events.
The Aegon Classic will be held at the Edgbaston Priory Club from June 17-25.
