'She's got courage'- Serena Williams praises rival Maria Sharapova after admitting to failed drugs test

World number one Tennis star Serena Williams has praised her fierce rival Maria Sharapova for admitting to failing a drug test in the recently concluded Australian open. The two most famous female athletes in the world have long suffered a strained relationship on and off the court.

Williams was furious her former boyfriend Grigor Dimitrov left her for Sharapova in 2012 and also resents that the world No 7 earns more commercially despite her (Serena) being a better player..


Speaking in New York on Tuesday, Williams offered some praise to Sharapova.

“I think most people were surprised, but most people were happy that she was up front. It’s just about taking responsibility, which she admitted she was willing to do. As Maria says, she’s ready to take responsibility, and that takes a lot of courage and heart. She’s always shown courage and heart (in tennis) and it’s no different.” she said

Serena Williams added she was “not concerned” that any ban could damage the sport.

“There are a lot of great stars on the WTA Tour,” claimed the 21-time Major winner. “We have a lot of young players, young US players doing really great. When the time comes someone will definitely step up and be that leader.”

Sharapova faces a ban of 2-4 years from the sport which could effectively end her career unless her legal counsel can convince the tribunal of 'mitigating circumstances'.