Players react to Sharapova’s return

Maria Sharapova’s comeback is all anyone seems to be able to talk about this week.

The Russian, a five-time major winner, will return from a 15-month doping ban in Stuttgart when she lines up for her first-round match against Roberta Vinci at 6.30pm local time on Wednesday.

Sharapova’s place in the draw was made possible when the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix organisers gifted her a wildcard entry.

This has been particularly contentious.

Players have continued to offer their views, and here are some of the latest …

Simona Halep: “For the kids, for the young players, it is not OK to help with a wildcard the player that was banned for doping. It is not about Maria Sharapova here, but it is about all the players that are found doped. I cannot support what the tournament director did, but also I cannot judge.”

Karolina Pliskova: “Definitely it’s a big thing for this tournament, not only for Stuttgart but for all the tournaments that are going to be next. From the tournaments’ side it’s a big plus. Obviously when Serena is going to be out now, tennis definitely needs a star like (Sharapova) is so I don’t have anything against it.”

Alize Cornet: “Generally speaking, I find it shameful that the WTA is promoting a player who tested positive after all. It’s normal that people talk about her, she’s an immense champion, but from there to promoting her return to such an extent … I find that unjust. A player who has tested positive should start from scratch like everyone else and win her place back. You shouldn’t roll out the red carpet for her. Unfortunately tennis remains a business … but, morally, it’s not good.”

Kim Clijsters: “She has done her punishment. I was disappointed and surprised when the news came out but she’s had the career that she’s had and I don’t think she needs to be punished more. I am sure it was really tough for her to be on the sideline for that long. But in a week’s time this news will be over and she will be back playing normally, and probably some of her best tennis.”

Elena Vesnina: “I don’t agree with (Agnieszka) Radwanska. I think there is some jealousy in the WTA. Yes, Maria violated the rules, but she admitted it, she was punished. It wasn’t the most terrible drug in the world. She is a great champion. Of course this situation has affected her reputation and career. But Maria is a strong person. I’m sure her comeback will prove how tough she is mentally.”