Sharapova withdraws from Indian Wells

Maria Sharapova has withdrawn from next week's BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells after failing to recover from a troublesome forearm injury.

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World number seven Maria Sharapova has withdrawn from next week's BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells after failing to recover from a troublesome forearm injury, it was confirmed Thursday.

The Russian star said in a statement issued by tournament chiefs she had pulled out in an effort to return to full fitness.

“I am extremely disappointed that I am unable to compete in this year's BNP Paribas Open,” said Sharapova.

“I have been focused on healing my left forearm injury and tried to get my body to be 100% ready to play this event, as it is one of my favorite events on the WTA and so close to my home in LA.

“I know the tournament will be a great success this year and I will be anxious to return next year and hopefully many years after.”

Sharapova has not played since exiting the Australian Open in the quarter-finals in January.

Her withdrawal from Indian Wells is the third time this year she has withdrawn from a tournament because of her forearm injury, having also missed tournaments in Brisbane and Doha.

Mariana Duque-Marino moves into the main draw for Indian Wells following Sharapova's absence.

This year's tournament takes place from March 7-20. – AFP