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Sharapova speaks out for first time since doping announcement

The Russian took to Facebook to address her fans.

ByNina Pantic

Published Mar 11, 2016

Three days after delivering the news of her failed drug test, Maria Sharapova has spoken out, on Facebook.

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The letter to her fans is thoughtful and compassionate, something many people haven’t been since the news broke.

“In this moment, I am so proud to call you my fans,” she wrote. “Within hours of my announcement, you showed me support and loyalty, which I could only expect to hear when someone would be at the top of their profession.”

She also addresses her future.

“I am determined to play tennis again and I hope I will have the chance to do so. I wish I didn't have to go through this, but I do - and I will,” she wrote.

And it looks like she hasn’t lost any determination. The former No. 1 was spotted beach-side working out, and looked entirely like the professional, dedicated athlete we’ve grown accustomed to seeing for years.

Notice she’s still wearing Nike despite the brand cutting ties with her the day after the press conference announcement (along with Porsche and Tag Heuer). Head, however, is staying put.

But at the beach, Sharapova did what she does best, play tennis (beach tennis technically). For someone embroiled in a possible career-ending drug suspension with the ITF, she’s still looking incredibly put together.

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