After an emphatic start to the Australian Open that didn’t see her lost a single game, Maria Sharapova has called out male players over their attitude towards their female counterparts.
The former world No.1 told reporters during her press conference that it has been ‘tough’ to gain respect from the players on the ATP Tour in recent years. Although Sharapova was keen to point out that some players have been more welcoming than others. Her comments coincides with the near retirement of three-time grand slam champion Andy Murray. Murray is known for his vocal support for women’s rights and was one of the few top players on the ATP Tour to have a female coach (Amelie Mauresmo).
“Relatively speaking, I think they (men) have been really tough, especially when it came to equality, as a general point.” Said Sharapova.
“Sitting at a press conference in Wimbledon five, seven years ago, there was not a lot of warmth coming from that side or that perspective. That’s tough.’
“I think there is definitely a few exceptions in the game, and I’m sure that he’s (Murray) been one of them.”
There has long been a debate about gender equality in tennis, which has substantially improved over the past 30 years. Equal prize money has been available at every grand slam since the 2007 Wimbledon Championships. Although, Sharapova believes there is more to needed to be done.
“I hope so. That’s what we aspire to get to.” She replied when asked if the situation will get better in the future.
Murray’s decision to walk away from the sport is related to his troublesome hip, which was operated on 12 months ago. Sharapova herself has also experienced injury setbacks over the years. Ending her 2018 season early due to a shoulder problem. Reflecting on her win over Boulter, the world No.30 said it was a ‘good test’ for both her shoulder and leg.
“I think injuries are just part of the sport.” The five-time grand slam champion explained.
“I can only understand it (Murray’s decision) from the perspective of my shoulder, because that’s something that I have had to deal with since I was 21 years old and really at the peak of my career, kind of came unexpected.’
“And here I am about 10 years later kind of going through very similar struggles, not on the depth that I was then with the tear of a tendon. But you realize that you’re not immortal, you’re never going to play this forever, even though we have done it as long as we can think of.”
While she is currently winning her own battle against injury, Sharapova is eager for a deep run in the Australian Open. She will take on Sweden’s Rebecca Peterson in the second round followed by a potential clash with defending champion Caroline Wozniacki.
“My next one (opponent) is someone I have never played against before. So that’s kind of tricky and a challenge.” She commented about playing Peterson.
“My coach is Swedish. I don’t know if that will maybe help me a little bit more.”
Sharapova has now won 55 main draw matches at the Australian Open.
