Murray calls for Sharapova's suspension post failed drug test

World number two Andy Murray believes that Maria Sharapova deserves to be suspended for failing a drug test at this year's Australian Open.

Earlier, the beleaguered female tennis star had announced that she was tested positive for banned substance meldonium, which she had been taking since 2006 for health issues.

Sharapova, who received a provisional ban from the sport for her wrongdoings, admitted that she had made a huge mistake and claimed that she failed to look at the new list of prohibited items from WADA for 2016.

Following Sharapova's revelations, major sponsors like Nike, Porsche and Tag Heuer decided to distance themselves from the Russian star.

Murray, who is known for being one of the outspoken players on the ATP Tour on the topic of doping, questioned why a significant amount of top-players were using meldonium, the prescription drug used to treat heart conditions, news.com.au reported.

The Briton also said that it was difficult to expect high level athletes to have heart conditions.

The 28-year-old also slammed the raquet sponsor Head, which announced that it would look to extend its contract with Sharapova.

The Head sports equipment company said that it was proud to stand behind the female tennis player, adding that it hoped that the suspension against her would not be career-ending.

Earlier, Spanish tennis maestro Rafael Nadal had also said that world number seven Sharapova should be punished as an example to others.

Sharapova, who lives in Florida, provided the anti-doping sample on the day she lost to Serena Williams in the Australian Open quarter finals in January.