Five-time Grand Slam tennis champion Maria Sharapova, 28, revealed that she tested positive for drugs at the Australian Open. The Russian athlete admitted she had been taking meldonium since 2006, thus, she's suspended from the matches beginning March 12.
"I had been legally taking the medicine for the past 10 years, but on January 1 the rules had changed, and meldonium became a prohibited substance, which I had not known," said Sharapova, per BBC.
She also stated that she's been taking the medication due to her family's health history. "I had irregular EKG results as well as indications of diabetes with a family history of diabetes," she told the press.
What is Meldonium?
Meldonium is a medication for heart condition. It's categorized as an anti-ischemic drug that aids in better blood flow. It is also taken so that the heart and other organs aren't deprived of oxygen. However, a previous study has revealed that the drug could also increase an athlete's endurance level despite little training or exercise. It was also used by Russian soldiers stationed in Afghanistan for improved stamina, the Associated Press reports.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which regulates drug use among sports professionals, determined that the drug should be included in its banned list beginning 2016. The agency had been noticing that the medication was frequently reflected in the drug tests of athletes even if they do not have any heart conditions, so they decided to investigate.
"We can confirm that meldonium was added to the 2016 Prohibited List which took effect on 1 January 2016, having previously been on WADA's monitoring program for the duration of 2015," WADA said in its statement.
What Will Happen To Sharapova?
While the matter is still being investigated, Sharapova is already losing endorsements from her sponsors like Nike and Tag Heuer, per Reuters. As one of the highest paid tennis athletes in the world, it's likely she will be barred from playing professionally if found that she's guilty of doping. Sharapova might also be stripped of her titles and wins. Reactions from the sports industry are mixed, but some have commended Sharapova for being upfront and taking responsibility in the matter.
