Li and Sharapova wo n't be competing in the new IPTL , their agent says . Sharapova transcends tennis and has long been a magnet for sponsors -- the Russian is perennially listed as the world 's richest female athlete by Forbes -- while China 's Li is one of the marquee names in Asia , having captured a second grand slam title at the Australian Open in January . Maria Sharapova is arguably the biggest name in women 's tennis and Li is hugely popular in Asia . The IPTL is hoping to be as successful as cricket 's established IPTL . The official player list is expected to be revealed on three-week .
Li and Sharapova wo n't be competing in the new IPTL , their agent says . Maria Sharapova is arguably the biggest name in women 's tennis and Li is hugely popular in Asia . The IPTL is hoping to be as successful as cricket 's established IPTL . The official player list is expected to be revealed on three-week .