Key sponsors cut ties with Maria Sharapova after she fails dope test
Nike, Tag Heuer and Porsche move quickly to distance themselves from the five-time grand slam tennis star; more Russian sports stars test positive for drug meldonium
Three of Maria Sharapova’s major sponsors are cutting ties with the Russian tennis star after she acknowledged failing a doping test at the Australian Open.
Sportswear giant Nike, Swiss watch brand Tag Heuer and German luxury car company Porsche moved quickly to distance themselves from the five-time grand slam winner after she announced the positive test at a news conference in Los Angeles.
We are saddened and surprised by the news about Maria Sharapova. We have decided to suspend our relationship
“We are saddened and surprised by the news about Maria Sharapova,” Nike said. “We have decided to suspend our relationship with Maria while the investigation continues. We will continue to monitor the situation.”
Tag Heuer said its deal with Sharapova will not be renewed. The sponsorship expired at the end of this year and discussions had been taking place on how to extend it.
“In view of the current situation, the Swiss watch brand has suspended negotiations, and has decided not to renew the contract with Ms Sharapova,” Tag Heuer said.
Porsche said on Tuesday it has “chosen to postpone planned activities” with Sharapova “until further details are released and we can analyse the situation”.