Andy Murray Questions Maria Sharapova’s Explanation For Using Meldonium - UBITENNIS

Andy Murray Questions Maria Sharapova’s Explanation For Using Meldonium

By Adam Addicott
4 Min Read
Andy Murray and maria Sharapova in action during the IPTL (source: AP)

World No.2 Andy Murray has questioned athletes reasoning for taking the newly banned substance meldonium, which includes Maria Sharapova.

On March 7th Sharapova confirmed that she tested positive for meldonium, a substance that was banned on January 1st, 2016 by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Sharapova said that she has been taking the substance for over ten years due to a family history of diabetes and heart disease. The 28-year-old belongs to a growing group of athletes that has tested positive for the substance, which also includes former 1500 meter world champion Abeba Aregawi. The high volume of failed tests has led to Murray questioning their reasoning behind taking it.

“I think since January 1st there has been 55 athletes that have failed tests for medomium”. He told BBC Radio 5.
“I find it strange that for a prescription drug use for heart conditions, so many athletes competing at the top of their sport would have that condition, it seems a bit off to me”.

Murray has been an outspoken advocate for greater anti-doping controls. In 2015 he said that a proportion of tournament prize money should be invested in anti-doping bodies. Murray’s comments came shortly after an independent investigation uncovered widespread doping in Russian athletics, leading to the country being banned from competition.

“Sports events should redirect some of the prize money rather than it going to the athletes and put it into the anti-doping bodies to make the testing protocol better.” Murray told the media in 2015.
“Sport needs to do a much better job of making sure that it’s clean.” He added.

Tackling the topic of Sharapova, Murray didn’t relax his stance against anti-doping. Sports equipment and clothing company HEAD has maintained their sponsorship with Sharapova, saying that the Russian didn’t intend to take it to enhance her performance. The comments from the company, who also has a sponsorship deal with Murray, was blasted by the world No.2. The Brit told BBC Radio 5 that it was a performance enhancing substance.

“well it was, on January 1st that substance was made illegal and she was taking it during January and into the Australian open.” Murray said.
“The ten years before she was taken it, it was not on the list and there isn’t a whole lot you can say about that”.
“It became illegal and she along with a number of athletes was taking it. She, along with other athletes have to take responsibility.” He concluded the interview saying.

The Brit is the latest player to express his opinion on the Sharapova Scandal. Serena Williams and Caroline Wozniacki have voiced their verdict on Sharapova. Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal has called for her to be punished by the authorities.

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