MARIA SHARAPOVA has kicked-off a fresh sexism storm after hitting out at Brisbane International chiefs after the women were kicked off the show-courts.
Stars including the former world No1, 32, were pushed to the outer-courts to make room for the men’s inaugural ATP Cup – held at the same venue – this week.
Sharapova said the women’s Brisbane International tournament – which is running simultaneously – now feels “second hand”.
The five-time Grand Slam champion roared: “There’s a lot of girls that are deserving of that centre-court spot.
“You definitely recognise it and notice it. It feels like a little bit of a second-hand event.”
Sharapova’s run at the Brisbane International came to an abrupt halt, after losing to American qualifier Jennifer Brady on Tuesday.
“HOW IT ALWAYS IS”
The Russian star has, however, been handed a wildcard for the Australian Open later this month.
Meanwhile, American star Sloane Stephens was in equally frustrated mood – saying this is “how it always is”.
The 26-year-old added: “We just weren’t in the conversation to even be considered.
“It was what the ATP wanted – they got what they wanted, girls to the side, that’s kind of how it always is.”
When grilled over the stunt, being viewed as sexist by a number of stars, Brisbane International tournament director Mark Handley swerved the question.
Handley said: “We are working with the tours to create an Australian summer of tennis that is an incredible global launch to the international tennis season.
“The ATP Cup is the first step in that and now we are in great talks with the WTA about a new concept and are really excited about the potential in this space.”
