Maria Sharapova wants to fight “Sharapova’s way” (i.e. on court) the critics that say that she doesn’t deserve wildcards.

After the Roland Garros had refused to grant a wildcard to Maria, the Russian beauty was expected to receive the same treatment in Wimbledon. Therefore, the former world no.1 decided not to ask for any wildcard for the Championships main draw, to play in Birmingham (yes, she had a wildcard for that), and then the qualifications for Wimbledon.

The communicate

Maria explained her intentions on her website

“Hello Everyone,

An update on my grass court tournament schedule.
A few months ago, I received a wild card offer from Birmingham, one of my most memorable tournaments as a young player. I am so grateful and excited to be playing this event again!
Because of my improved ranking after the first three tournaments of my return, I will also be playing the Qualifying of Wimbledon in Roehampton, and will not be requesting a wild card into the main draw.

I have already started getting treatment on the injury I sustained a few days ago in Rome, and will begin my preparation as soon I get better.

Maria”