The Russian superstar who is back after a drug ban might even win enough ranking points to earn a first-round place at SW19
WIMBLEDON chiefs are refusing to rule out giving a wildcard to Maria Sharapova after her drugs ban.
But BBC pundit Andrew Castle is tipping the All England Club to refuse her a pass into the main draw — and make her play qualifying.
Maria Sharapova is racing against rustiness and time to try to qualify for Wimbledon in her own right
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Maria Sharapova is racing against rustiness and time to try to qualify for Wimbledon in her own rightCredit: Getty Images
Experts expect Sharapova to win enough ranking points before May 22 to earn a place in the first round by right.
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But if she fails, the All England Club’s committee, chaired by former British No 1 Tim Henman, would consider a wildcard request.
Sharapova, 30, is rebuilding her career after a 15-month ban for taking the banned drug meldonium.
And All England Club chairman Philip Brook said: “There are many factors that will be taken into account.
“Her record at Wimbledon could be one. We look at who’s done well in lead-up tournaments.
Tim Henman and Wimbledon chiefs could have to decide if they will give Maria Sharapova a wildcard
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Tim Henman and Wimbledon chiefs could have to decide if they will give Maria Sharapova a wildcardCredit: Getty Images
“And we also consider what might add interest to the tournament. So if someone has a very strong Wimbledon record, that would be a factor, too.”
But Brook admitted there was no overall policy over wildcards for players returning from doping bans.
Sources believe former Wimbledon champion Shazza could play in the Aegon Classic in Birmingham in mid-June, which would also help curry favour with the AELTC.