Maria Sharapova DENIED French Open spot as ‘there cannot be a wildcard for players returning from doping’
This was the reasoning given by Bernard Giudicelli Ferrandini, who said he was 'sorry for Maria and for her fans'
MARIA SHARAPOVA has been denied a wildcard for this year's French Open.
The Russian is making her way back on the tennis circuit following a 15-month ban for failing a drugs test.
Traces of banned substance meldonium were found in a sample, and she only returned to action in April this year.
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And she will not feature at Roland Garros this year.
President of the French Tennis Federation Bernard Giudicelli Ferrandini, said: "No-one can deny her the two titles, but according to the rules, we couldn’t give her a wildcard.
"She had committed a violation of the tennis programme and had to be suspended for 15 months. Today this is over, she can take her path.
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"But if there can be a wildcard for people returning from injuries, there cannot be a wildcard for players returning from doping.
"I am very sorry for Maria, and for her fans, she might be disappointed, but it is my mission to protect the game and to protect the high standards, and to prevent any doubt on the result.
"That’s the decision."
This decision comes just days after tournament director Guy Forget admitted the decision was "very controversial".
Incredibly, the Russian said she wasn't listening in for the decision, that was broadcast live on Facebook, as she was busy preparing for her Round of 32 match in the Italian Open tonight.
Sharapova faced Mirjana Lucic-Baroni, but had to retire in the deciding set with a thigh injury.
In a statement released after the premature ending, Sharapova 'apologised' for having to pull out.
She said: "I will be getting all the necessary examinations to make sure it's not serious. I want to thank the tournament for giving me the opportunity to play in this special event again."
The 30-year-old has already jumped back into the top 200, but has guaranteed a spot at Wimbledon qualifying for the SW19 tournament this summer.
Sharapova defeated America’s Christina McHale in straight sets winning 6-4 6-2 in the Italian Open this week, as she carries on her assault to climb back to the very top of tennis.
This guaranteed her a spot at the All England Club qualifiers.
Sharapova can ensure her place in the main draw in the Grand Slam if she reaches the semi-finals in Rome.