Racket sponsor Head support Maria Sharapova despite failed drugs test

Maria Sharapova’s racket sponsor is backing the grand slam winner and is planning to extend its contract with her despite admitting to failing a drugs test.

Sharapova has used Head equipment since 2011 and the company’s support is a significant boost after her announcement on Monday placed her relationship with other sponsors into doubt.

Head’s chairman and chief executive Johan Eliasch said in a statement: “The honesty and courage (Sharapova) displayed in announcing and acknowledging her mistake was admirable.