The three time Grand Slam winner, Maria Sharapova is to miss the Sony Ericsson Open due to a shoulder injury. She withdrew her slot in the Open last Friday since she practically is not ready to play the tournament singles. It is important that she fully recover from her ailment before she becomes active in the courts again.
Sharapova played her first match in this seven month season last March 12 under the doubles category. Her team was unfortunately defeated at Indian Wells. She was unable to continue to join the WTA Tour last year, August, because she needed to undergo a surgery after she had her torn rotator cuff, two months earlier.
At this time, Sharapova plans to complete her rehabilitation. She felt good playing back in the courts again last week even if it was only playing for the doubles. She is convinced that she cannot pursue playing seven more consecutive matches in the Sony Ericsson Open, otherwise her condition might get worse. It is wiser to withdraw other than force herself.
Nikolay Davydenko, men’s defending champion, also has to withdraw due to a serious foot infection.
Officials of the Sony Ericsson Open formally announced the withdrawal of the two top players last Friday. The tournament will start on Wednesday.