ANDY MURRAY has launched a thinly-veiled attack on those who would rather dust the Maria Sharapova scandal under the carpet, saying high-profile failed tests like this can help the sport be more transparent.

Rumours have been rife in recent years that players have served “silent bans” as failed drugs tests were covered up.

Unlike sports like cycling and athletics, tennis does not make public a failed test until a player is banned. If they are found innocent, nothing is ever known of the failed test.

Murray, who has already said Sharapova has to receive a ban if found guilty, believes those who say that no positive drugs tests means a clean sport, are clearly wrong.

“In the past, a lot of times people have said that it is the lesser names that have come out – even though there has actually been more big names than you would think,” Murray said in Indian Wells.

“But Maria is probably the biggest female athlete in the world, the most recognisable. That why it is a positive: that it’s actually out there.

“I think if nothing was said about it (a failed test) that’s when it’s actually really, really bad for the sport, even though some people may say ‘OK, it’s good’ – it’s not.”

World No 1 Novak Djokovic yesterday expressed his sympathy for Sharapova, as a friend, but admitted she had made a mistake.

“Obviously I can't speak about the details because I don't know,” he said. “I know as much as you guys know whether or not she was aware of the changes.

“But certainly if there was a mistake and if she was caught to be positive on the doping for a certain substance, then there should be certain kind of consequences for that.”

Djokovic also backed up Murray’s belief that taking medication, when it was not required for a particular condition, is unethical.

“I feel like in sport in general there is maybe a conviction with many athletes that medications and certain substances can make you feel healthy or feel better,” he said.

“I don't believe in that kind of short-term process. I believe in long-term balance and harmonious health and well-being that is achieved from different aspects.

“I wouldn't say that there is a magic potion or elixir that can make you feel better.”

Djokovic said he did not personally read all the emailed notifications he receives and said the ATP could also help in that regard, instead of “stepping aside because it’s a matter for the ITF and Wada”.

Murray, who last night was partnering his fellow Scot, Colin Fleming, in a first-round doubles match, will begin his singles campaign today against Marcel Granollers of Spain.