Maria Sharapova has pulled out of the BNP Paribas Masters in Indian Wells due to a left forearm injury.
The world No.7 hasn’t played a match since her quarterfinal loss Serena Williams at the Australian Open. Sharapova has struggled with her forearm since the Wuhan Open last September. The issue has already forced her to withdraw from the Brisbane International and Doha Open this year. Speaking about her latest withdrawal from Indian Wells, Sharapova spoke of her disappointment.
“I am extremely disappointed that I am unable to compete in this year’s BNP Paribas Open,” Sharapova said in a statement.
“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 is a two-time winner of the Indian Wells tournament, winning the title in 2006 and 2013. Last year she suffered a fourth round loss to Flavia Pennetta despite being the second seed in the tournament.
The forearm injury is the latest development in Sharapova’s injury woes. During 2015 she missed almost three months of the tour due to a right leg injury. Due to the series of issues, the Russian has only been able to play in 12 competitive matches since her run to the final at Wimbledon last year. The next tournament in Sharapova’s schedule will be the Miami Open, which will start on March 22nd.
Due to Sharapova’s withdrawal, Colombia’s Mariana Duque-Marino will be promoted to the main draw in Indian Wells.
