By Chris Oddo | Saturday March 12, 2016

 

After her straight-sets win over Sloane Stephens, Eugenie Bouchard expressed her shock upon hearing about news of Maria Sharapova's drug suspension.

Photo Source Julian Finney/Getty

After her 7-5, 7-5 victory over Sloane Stephens on Saturday night at Indian Wells, Eugenie Bouchard talked about the good feelings she was having about earning her first Top-25 victory in nearly a year and a half. “I definitely felt I was playing a better level than my previous match,” she said. “I felt a little more like myself out there. We had some great points, really both going at it, and, you know, I was just, I think, a bit more aggressive. I think that made the difference.”

Bouchard also said that she was happy to have hockey legend Wayne Gretzky in her player’s box during the match.

“Yeah, it was such an honor to have him watch. I know he came to the US Open last year, as well. As soon as I saw him in the box I got nervous,” she said. “Actually, as soon as I saw him I lost a game and played pretty bad and I was wondering if he would leave or whatever. I was thinking, I have to get my game up a little. I know his daughter is an aspiring tennis champion. It's cool that they are really into it and supportive.”

It wasn’t until the end of the press conference that Bouchard was asked about her feelings on Maria Sharapova’s drug suspension. Her answer was short and sweet, and brought to light the immense gravity of this situation.

“I was very shocked and disappointed,” she said. “:As I said before, she was an idol of mine growing up. To think of your childhood idol and wonder if it was a lie, it really affected me a lot. She added: “I mean, we all don't know enough yet, I think. But, you know, to question those things is very disappointing.”

Bouchard moves on to face Timea Bacsinszky in the third round here. Meanwhile, the shock and the disappointment about Maria Sharapova’s situation lingers in the air at the BNP Paribas Open. Discussion about the Russian has tapered off since the action on the court has heated up this weekend, but Bouchard’s words, however succinct, remind us of the seriousness of the situation.