When she isn’t making news for repping Canada hard on the professional tennis circuit, or making wild bets with dudes on Twitter, Genie Bouchard likes to keep it real. This attitude was exemplified yesterday when the homegrown phenom was interviewed by TRT World and asked to comment on the controversial return of Russian star, Maria Sharapova.
If you may remember, Sharapova was suspended last year following a doping scandal. After a few months, the 30-year-old star already found her way back into the sport, although she’ll need to work hard to qualify for any of the big tournaments. The whole thing apparently doesn’t sit well with Bouchard, who didn’t hold back when chatting with reporters. “She’s a cheater,” Genie stated emphatically. “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.”
Bouchard’s views are pretty harsh considering the Canadian grew up idolizing the WTA Tour mainstay. However, Genie seems to be placing herself in the shoes of younger fans who were once like her: those who happen to look up to players like Sharapova. “I think from the WTA, it sends the wrong message to young kids,” she said. “Cheat and we’ll welcome you back with open arms. I don’t think that’s right.” You can watch the entire interview above via YouTube. Meanwhile, Maria Sharapova is set to compete for a wild card spot in the French Open next month.
