London, June 24 (IANS) Tennis star Maria Sharapova has opted for shorts instead of the short skirts that have made her popular for the ongoing Wimbledon tournament. Sharapova has opted for pinstripe Nike gear for the June 23 to July 6 event. She will warm up in a hand-made trouser suit - based on a man’s formal tuxedo. She will then strip down for action to shorts and a sleeveless top. And she will set off the outfit with a pair of 2,500 pound ($5,000) Tiffany platinum earrings, The Sun reported.

The people who come to see more of the players than their racquet skills are crest-fallen. “Sharapova is a great player but I feel she’s letting down blokes in the crowd by opting to wear shorts,” a fan said.

A marketing executive who came from Bristol to see her first match Tuesday said: “Sharapova’s a great looking girl and a great talent, but I don’t understand why she feels the need to recreate the look of Martina Navratilova.”

It is just not Sharapova. There is a growing feeling that the women players are avoiding skirts this time.

For example, American Ashley Harkleroad came for her match wearing pants Monday. Serena Williams too warmed up for her match in a belted raincoat.