Back to the Tennis Newsfeed

Maria Sharapova: French Open wildcard reasoning wrong, say WTA

The decision not to give two-time winner Maria Sharapova a French Open wildcard has been criticised by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA).

The Russian, 30, was ranked too low to gain direct entry as she continues her return from a 15-month drugs ban.

The French Tennis Federation (FFT) said their "mission to protect the high standards" of tennis was the reason.

"I don't agree with the basis for their decision. She has complied with the sanction," said WTA chief Steve Simon.

"There are no grounds to penalise any player beyond the sanctions set forth in the final decisions resolving these matters.