MELBOURNE: The Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley has defended the decision to invite Maria Sharapova to the draw ceremony.
Serena Williams, the defending champion, is missing the tournament, and in her place organizers controversially chose Sharapova to represent the women.
The Russian, a former champion in Melbourne, entered Margaret Court Arena carrying the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup at the same venue she failed a doping test for meldonium two years ago.
Tiley said he had no issue with the decision, pointing to Sharapova’s status as a former champion — she lifted the trophy in 2008.
In the absence of Williams and Victoria Azarenka, who is currently fighting for the custody of her son Leo, Sharapova and 2016 champion Angelique Kerber are the only former winners in the draw.
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Australian Open organizer defends Maria Sharapova draw decision
Australian Open organizer defends Maria Sharapova draw decision
Ronaldo misses Al-Nassr match amid reports of strike over lack of transfer activity
- 40-year-old Ronaldo has scored 17 goals this season
RIYADH: Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League match against Al Riyadh on Monday amid reports he is on strike over the club’s lack of transfer activity.
Portuguese media outlet A Bola reported that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is unhappy that Al-Nassr, which is backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investement Fund, has not strengthened its squad as it challenges for the league title.
Heading into the game, Al-Nassr were second behind rival Al Hilal, which is also backed by the PIF and has been linked with Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema.
Al-Nassr CEO Jose Semedo declined to comment, according to Saudi media.
The 40-year-old Ronaldo has scored 17 goals this season.
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