Former world No.1 Maria Sharapova has revealed that she was not allowed to travel by plane for three weeks under doctors order in response to criticism of her withdrawal from the Miami Open.
Last week Sharapova announced that she would be missing the tournament due to a left forearm injury. An issue that has also caused her trouble in the past. The withdrawal has prompted some criticism from her fans. On Tuesday, Twitter user ‘Daniil N’ wrote to the Russian and expressed his disappointment with her absence. Drawing similarities between this occasion and a 2015 Fed Cup tie, which she also withdrew from two days prior to its start. According to his profile, he describes himself as the ‘co-founder of #SharafamilyRUS.’
“I think a player with such an incredible career and a person ‘who was open and honest to her fans’ can afford to make a statement and tell the truth.” Daniil N wrote on Twitter.
“Many fans often take the risk and buy tickets for her matches (and flights) instead of something else. And Maria does it again and again.
“I really like her and respect, but so disappointed.”
The Tweet has unexpectedly prompted a direct response for Sharapova herself, who confirmed for the first time another health problem. A recent medical examination concluded that the 30-year-old had an ‘air pocket’ in her lung. A situation where there is an abnormal collection of air in the pleural space between the lung and the chest wall. According to Sharapova, Doctors advised her not to travel by plane for three weeks.
“I don’t sign up for anything in my career unless I’m fully committed to it,” Sharapova stated.
“So if the thought process is that I enjoy going through MRI, CT scans, injections, the five doctor specialists I have seen this past month … I can honestly tell you that this time you’re incorrect.”
Further on in her lengthy reply, the five-time grand slam champion offered an apology to Daniil, who brought Miami tickets for a friend, before urging him to give her ‘the benefit of a doubt.’
“I am really sorry that you purchased two tickets for a friend who was looking forward to seeing my play live. But maybe this time, you can give me the benefit of the doubt and understand that I would trade all of the above to compete in front of your friend.” She explained.
Since reaching the semifinals of the Shenzhen Open in January, Sharapova has only managed to win two matches in three tournaments. She is currently ranked 42nd in the world.
Full Twitter exchange
Daniil N
Some thought regarding @MariaSharapova #MiamiOpen #truefan #but ♂️♂️ pic.twitter.com/GaJMwQfFl1
— Daniil N. (@daniil_ndg) 16 March 2018
Maria Sharapova
— Maria Sharapova (@MariaSharapova) 20 March 2018
