Maria Sharapova finds herself at the right time to make a comeback from doping suspensions, or maybe not. Sports Illustrated writer John Wertheim discussed Sharapova's chances of making an impact after a 15-month ban by the ITF.
Wertheim believes it will be boom or bust for Sharapova moving onward. The Russian will turn 30-year old in April and has 14-years of experience in the WTA circuit at the time she makes her return.
Make no mistake, Wertheim expects Sharapova to deal with ring rust and scrutiny from her peers and tennis fans. Then again, the layoff could serve as a blessing in disguise for Sharapova. As long as she keeps herself in tip-top shape, the Russian Diva can compete with the best women's tennis has to offer.
"But my prediction for Sharapova: no mediocrity. This is one pole or the other. She's either winning trophies or the magic is gone. She's been staying in shape, and the time off might be a blessing in disguise. Ferociously competitive to begin with, she won't lack for motivation. She will see the faces of the tribunal members on each ball she strikes."
Wertheim added that Sharapova's Spring return puts her on an ideal spot. Serena Williams has always been a thorn to Sharapova whatever surface and tournaments it is. But now that Williams has shown some weakness in the game, especially towards the last half of 2016 season, Sharapova could finally find a way to solve the puzzle.
"With her tormentor, Serena Williams, now 35 years old and a soft pocket at the top of the WTA rankings-if Sharapova and Angelique Kerber played 10 matches on a variety of surfaces next week, might there be a 5-5 split?-opportunity is there."
After managing to reduce her suspension down to 15 months, Sharapova can rejoin the WTA circuit as early as the French Open championships, where she's a two-time champion.
