Porsche released that famous female tennis player and Nike-sponsored athlete Maria Sharapova will make her first return to the sport after being suspended for using a performance enhancement substance come April 26 at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix.
The 29-year-old former world No. 1 and five-time Grand Slam winner Sharapova will play her first match in the Porsche Arena. Since the Australian Open in January 2016, she has not played a competitive match. Sharapova received a wild card for the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix.
“I could not be happier to have my first match back on tour at one of my favorite tournaments,” said Sharapova, who won the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in 2012, 2013 and 2014. “I can’t wait to see all my great fans and to be back doing what I love.”
“I’m really happy for Maria that she’s back after a long break. Particularly pleasing for me is that it’s going to be our audience that gets to watch her comeback live,” said Tournament Director Markus Günthardt. “Her return in the Porsche Arena is a fabulous present for our fantastic spectators and is certain to be one of the sporting and emotional highlights of our anniversary tournament.”
Photo courtesy Porsche
