Five-time Grand Slam winner Maria Sharapova confessed on Monday that she tested positive for meldonium at the Australian Open after the drug went onto the banned substance list on Jan. 1. The World Anti-Doping Agency says she isn't alone: On Friday, the agency reported that 99 tests since Jan. 1 have shown positive results for meldonium.
The New York Times reported Thursday that at least 60 athletes had tested positive for the drug, which is typically used to help with blood flow in heart patients. While many who have tested positive have not yet been publicly identified, among their numbers are Olympic gold medalist in short-track speedskating Semion Elistratov of Russia, Olympic silver medalist in wrestling Davit Modzmanashvili of Georgia, and world champion runner Abeba Aregawi of Sweden.
Sharapova's confession has split many in the sport. "I find it strange that there's a prescription drug used for heart conditions and so many athletes competing at the top level of their sport would have that condition. That sounds a bit off to me," Andy Murray told the BBC. Serena Williams, on the other hand, has defended Sharapova, calling her decision to admit to the positive test courageous.
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