Sharapova pulls out of Australian Open

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:12

“I am very sorry to announce that I am not going to be able to defend my title at this year’s Australian Open,” Sharapova explained.

“My shoulder is doing great, but I just started training a few weeks ago and I am just not near the level I need to be to compete at the highest levels.”

The 23-year-old has not played since Montreal in August because of a nagging shoulder complaint, but she had hoped to be ready for the first Grand Slam of the year.

Sharapova dominated the tournament last year, not dropping a set on her way to her third major success.

“The Australian Open is one of my favourite tournaments, they have the best fans in the world and I am going to miss everything about the tournament. I promise I will see everyone next year,” she said.

Tournament Director Craig Tiley said he was disappointed for Sharapova because he knows how hard she has been working since the injury and how much she wanted to defend her crown.

“She played some amazing tennis on Rod Laver Arena last year and has a massive legion of fans in Australia. I know she has been working around the clock to try and get back from the shoulder injury. In the end, time beat her this year,” he said.

“We wish her well with her return to tennis and look forward to seeing her back in Melbourne next year, Maria is always welcome here. Maria is always welcome here.”

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