UN revokes Maria Sharapova's goodwill ambassadorship

Russian tennis star Maria Sharapova has been suspended as a Goodwill Ambassador by the UN after her failed drugs test.

The 28-year-old tested positive for meldonium in January at the Australian Open and has provisionally been suspended from March 12.

“In light of Ms Sharapova’s recent announcement, we last week suspended her role as a Goodwill Ambassador and any planned activities while the investigation continues. We wish Ms Sharapova the best,” the UNDP told Reuters in an emailed statement.

In the process, big sponsors including Nike, Swiss watchmaker TAG heuer and German luxury car maker Porsche have cut ties with her.

Sharapova faces a ban of up to four years for taking meldonium, which was added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned list in 2016.

Sharapova has won 35 career titles including 05 Grand Slams and was named Goodwill Ambassador in 2007.