Defending Champion Maria Sharapova Withdraws From Beijing

Maria Sharapova officially withdrew from next week’s Beijing Open. Sharapova had won the title there last year beat Petra Kvitova, but a left forearm injury suffered earlier this week will prevent her from defending her crown.

“I am very disappointed to have to pull out of the China Open this year and not have the chance to defend my title,” The World No. 3 Sharapova said.

“I look forward to coming back to Beijing next year and competing in front of my Chinese fans.”

Sharapova is still hoping to play the WTA Championships in Singapore at the end of October.

The Russian has played just one match since losing to Serena Williams in the Wimbledon semifinals. After being sidelined with a leg injuring over the summer, she return to tennis this week in Wuhan but retired with the injury in her opening match against Barbora Strycova.