Former world No.1 Maria Sharapova has insisted that she doesn’t care what people are saying about her as she aims to return back to the top of the sport next year.
The Russian returned to the WTA Tour in April after serving a 15-month ban for violating anti-doping rules. Sharapova tested positive for the banned substance meldonium during the 2016 Australian Open. Some players has criticised tournaments for handing out wildcards to Sharapova. Arguing that is sets a bad example to give these privileges to those convicted of doping.
Sharapova has maintained that she never consumed the drug to enhance her performance. Stating that she was unaware that meldonium was made a prohibited substance on January 1st, 2016. Nevertheless, the criticism of the Russian continues.
(For those who are blocked) Wozniacki upset about scheduling. #usopen pic.twitter.com/3tqgoQuKF3
— Ashish Jena (@ashishjena94) 31 August 2017
Speaking with reporters in Istanbul ahead of a exhibition match on Sunday, the 30-year-old has dismissed her critics. Insisting that she is focused on her own goals.
“It seems to me that my mission and my goals are much more important than someone’s opinion.” Said Sharapova.
“What I do on the court is more important than talking. I will always prioritize in this order.”
Dealing with a series of injury problems since her comeback, Sharapova has only managed to play 24 matches this season. Her biggest achievement occurred towards the end of the year when she won the Tianjin Open. Her first WTA title since the 2015 Italian Open.
Addressing her relationship with the media, who has also been a harsh critic of her in the past, the Russian now feels more at ease. Explaining that she is able to open up more about her life. Earlier this year, Sharapova released own own book called ‘Unstoppable: My Life So Far.’
“It seems to me that with age I became even more open. Now it is easier for me to share with my fans some stories, details of my life.” She explained.
“I want to share my emotions in difficult moments, and in moments of victories. I grew up in front of many journalists, but I still feel young and I think that I have many more years to go, so you will still have the opportunity to ask me questions.”
On Sunday afternoon, Sharapova defeated Turkey’s Cagla Buyukakcay 7-6(3), 6-0, in a special exhibition match in the country. Local media have reported that 15,000 spectators went to watch the match. It was done in aid of the TEB BNP Paribas Tennis Stars Series.
#TEBTennisStars‘ta oyun, set ve maç MARIA SHARAPOVA! pic.twitter.com/ZAndjOq3OK
— sportstv (@sportstvcomtr) 26 November 2017
