Eugiene Bouchard: Maria Sharapova 'a cheater'

Maria Sharapova of Russia reacts in her match against Roberta Vinci. Photo / Getty

Eugenie Bouchard says "cheater" Maria Sharapova should not have been allowed to return to tennis after a doping ban.

Bouchard, the 2014 Wimbledon finalist, believes governing body the WTA is sending out the wrong message by letting Sharapova resume her career after completing a 15-month suspension.

Former world No.1 Sharapova, who was banned after testing positive for meldonium, made a winning return to competitive action on Wednesday when she defeated Roberta Vinci 7-5 6-3 in the first round of the Stuttgart Open.

But Bouchard believes that should never have been allowed to happen.

Asked whether Sharapova was still an idol of hers and what her feelings were on the Russian being handed a wild card for Stuttgart, the 23-year-old Canadian told TRT World: "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 is) definitely not someone I can say I look up to any more."

Sharapova was back on court just 24 hours after completing her suspension for failing a drugs test.

The 30-year-old tested positive for meldonium at the 2016 Australian Open and her original two-year ban was reduced on appeal.

- AAP