The 80s Forum

Maria Sharapova has launched a stinging attack on the governing body of women's tennis over their publicity demands.

The world number three says the WTA is "forcing" her to do a publicity shoot in Rome, ahead of the Italian Open, after flying in from Los Angeles.

"The WTA is telling me if I don't do this shoot they will fine me over US$300,000," said the Russian.

The tournament begins on 12 May and features a host of leading players, including Justine Henin, Ana Ivanovic, Serena and Venus Williams.

"I want all my fans to know that the WTA Tour is forcing me and several of the other top players to do a four-hour commercial shoot for WTA Tour marketing materials," Sharapova told her website.

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Wimbledon organisers have announced that the 2008 men's and women's champions will both receive £750,000.

In the second year of equal prize money for the winners of the men's and women's singles, the champions will each get £50,000 more than in 2007.

The All England Club said an enlarged Centre Court with 15,000 seats and the return of its traditional roof will be ready for the 23 June start.

Work will be completed in 2009 with the addition of a retractable roof.

A new Court Two is structurally complete and will also come into use in the summer of 2009.

Total prize money will rise by 4.7%, from £11,282,710 to £11,812,000.

There were no plans to follow the lead of the French Open and start the tournament on a Sunday.

Join in the discussion at The Andy Murray Forum.