Maria Sharapova has not been welcomed back to tennis with open arms.
The Russian returned to action on Wednesday evening at a tournament in Stuttgart, after serving a 15-month drugs ban for using Meldonium. Sharapova defeated Italian Roberta Vinci in straight-sets.
Vinci, along with many others have been vociferous in their displeasure at Sharapova's return, but none so much as Eugenie Bouchard.
The Canadian is competing in the Istanbul Open in both the singles and doubles competitions this week, as Sharapova continues her comeback in Germany. She has told TRT World that she feels the Russian is a "cheat", and should not be given wildcards into tournaments.
"I don't think that's right. She's a cheater and so to me, I don't think a cheater in any sport should be allowed to play that sport again. It's so unfair to all the other players who do it the right way and are true."
"I think from the WTA it sends the wrong message to young kids. 'Cheat and we'll welcome you back with open arms.' I don't think that's right and [she's] definitely not someone I can say I look up to anymore. It ruined it for me a little bit."
The first match between Sharapova and Bouchard since the Russian's return is sure to be interesting.
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