Maria Sharapova’s preparation for the upcoming US Open has suffered another setback after she withdraw from the Western and Southern Open in Cincinnati.
The former world No.1 announced her absence from the event on Saturday as she continues to nurse a forearm injury. Sharapova has only managed to play one tour match since June after missing the entire grass-court swing due to a leg injury. She returned to action at Stanford, but pulled out of the second round due to pain in her forearm. An issue that continues to hinder her.
“I arrived in Cincinnati yesterday (Friday) eager to play. However, following the doctor’s advice on-site, as a precaution for the US Open, I am unfortunately withdrawing from the tournament with the left forearm injury I sustained in Stanford,” She said in a statement. “I want to thank the tournament for the wildcard opportunity and really look forward to competing here next year.”
At the start of the month, Sharapova underwent a scan on her left arm in Stanford following her first round win. She reported that a doctor advised her to rest her arm without elaborating further.
Cincinnati is the sixth tournament the Russian has pulled out of this season, casting apprehension about her presence at Flushing Meadows. Currently ranked 149th in the world, she is set to miss out on direct entry into the main draw. There is a possibility that she could receive a wild card, however, it is unclear what the tournament is considering. Sharapova remains one of the sport’s most recognisable figures, but injury problems and a previous doping sanction hinder her chances.
Sharapova’s desire to play at the upcoming US Open comes after what has been a roller coaster season. Returning to the tour from a 15-month doping ban in April, she has achieved a win-loss record of 6-3. She is yet to participate in a grand slam event (post-ban) after the French Open declined to give her a wild card into their tournament.
The US Open will begin on August 28th in New York. Sharapova last won the event in 2006, defeating Justine Henin in the final.
