• WTA

Injured Sharapova pulls out of Brisbane

ESPN staff
December 24, 2011
Maria Sharapova is struggling with an ankle injury © PA Photos
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Maria Sharapova's preparations for the Australian Open have been thrown into chaos by an ankle injury that has forced the Russian out of the Brisbane International.

The Australian Open begins on January 16 and Sharapova will be one of the leading fancies for the first grand slam of the year.

The Brisbane event is one of the key tournaments for players to test their sharpness following the winter break, but Sharapova will not make the trip.

"I was really looking forward to starting my 2012 season at the Brisbane International, which has a fantastic reputation as a great and welcoming event," Sharapova told the tournament's official website. "Unfortunately my ankle is not 100 per cent and I won't be able to make it this year.

"I do expect to be ready for the year's first grand slam and I am really looking forward to competing on court."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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