Porsche Brand Ambassador Spot Vacant, No More Maria Sharapova Commercials to Air

MANILA: Coming events cast their shadow before. This line seems to be tailor-made for the recent chain of events that followed Maria Sharapova doping case. The world seventh ranking tennis player was tested positive in the Australian Open drug test and the events that followed next didn't come as much of a shock to the world. First Nike and now Porsche, along with TAG Heuer, have decided to end all their endorsements ties with the two-time WTA champion.

Maria Sharapova downfall journey started on Monday, 7th March, when at a press conference she revealed about her positive drug test report. The days after only saw Sharapova’s tumbling career, both on the professional and entertainer front. Nike Inc.,later that evening, announced its decision to end all its tie with the Russian-born tennis star. On 8th March, German automaker Porsche spokesman said: “We’ve suspended all events and activities with Ms. Sharapova for the time being.” After the Germans, the Swiss were next to break the bad news, as TAG Heuer 'suspended negotiations' to extend collaboration with Sharapova.

Talking specifically about Miss Maria Sharapova and Porsche, their relation dates back to April 2013. Until today, she was considered as the 'perfect choice' as her 'profile and charisma are an ideal fit for Porsche.' Well, that's what Porsche global page reads about its association with the star. No one ever thought that this sport+car collaboration will witness such an unexpected end. So from now on, no more 'outperform yourself' speech, and no more sharing stage with Magnus or Muhammad Ali for Miss Sharapova.

The Culprit behind Sharapova misery -

A drug named Medonium is what Maria would curse her entire life. According to her, she was put on its medication by her doctor and has been taking the drug regularly for ten years. It is a non-FDA approved medicine, manufactured in Latvia with its availability restricted to Russia and Baltic countries.

Ten years back, Medonium drug was not included in the list of banned drugs. It was only last year, on 16th September 2015, that it was approved to be included in the drug banned list with effect from 1 January 2016.

An unread December e-mail from WADA in her mailbox that carried information about new substances added to doping list was her biggest mistake. And as a result, she continued with the drug and was eventually tested positive for the 'now banned' drug.

Future Course of Action for the Tennis star -

As of now, all event participation have been banned for Maria. She has been suspended from the 12th March scheduled Australian Open tournament and Porsche Grand Prix. All she has to do is to concentrate on how she would 'demonstrate that it was an honest mistake with no other improper reasons behind she taking the drug.'

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