The agent of Maria Sharapova, Max Eisenbud, has told Eurosport Russia that Maria Sharapova is poised to end her Fed Cup commitment this year.
In an interview with tennis commentator Vladas Lasitskas, Eisenbud discussed Sharapova’s current form and her future on the tour. Currently the Russian is in her native country for Russia’s Fed Cup tie against the Netherlands. Speaking about Sharapova’s appearance at the tie, Eisenbud has indicated that it could be her final Fed Cup commitment.
“I would say that this is probably the last time she is in the Fed Cup”. He told Eurosport.ru.
The absence of Sharapova from the Fed Cup isn’t a big surprise for many. The 28-year-old has only played in two Fed Cup ties since the 2012 Olympics (three if she plays this weekend). Despite her Fed Cup commitment coming to an end, Eisenbud has insisted that her career will continue for the foreseeable future.
“I think so. But in order to play, she needs to be healthy. For this to happen, She will need to listen to the voice of her body, to the advice of doctors”. He said.
“But if her health is not good, it is unlikely that she will remain on the tour”. He later added.
Recent reports have suggested that Sharapova is currently being troubled by a shoulder injury and she will travel to Germany next week for treatment.
Speaking about the Fed Cup, Eisenbud has launched his own personal attack on the International Tennis Federation (ITF). Calling the people in change of the ITF ‘dinosaurs’, Eisenbud said that the tournament needs to change in order to attract more fans and top players.
“In my view, the Federation Cup should be held every two years. The top four or eight teams should be collected in one place, and let them play the title as part of the Final Four or the Final Eight”. Eisenbud said.
“Sometimes I turn on the TV and see a Fed Cup match, there are half-empty stands. And it’s terrible. Therefore the ITF needs to get back to reality.”
The wishes of Eisenberg could come true sooner than expected. Newly-elected ITF president David Haggerty made similar comments at that start of this year concerning the Davis Cup. Haggerty is also in favor of the introduction of a final-four competition.
