Maria Sharapova withdrew from the Brisbane International on Tuesday after suffering an arm injury in practice less than two weeks before the Australian Open.
“I hurt my forearm in practice a couple days ago and need to precautionary withdraw with the Australian Open starting,” the Russian was quoted as saying by Brisbane tournament organisers.
“Brisbane Tennis is such a special event especially being defending champion. I look forward to seeing all my fans next year.”
Sharapova, the world No 4, had been due to face compatriot Ekaterina Makarova in first round action later on Tuesday but will be replaced by a lucky loser.
The 28-year-old five-times grand slam singles champion will rest up before she aims for her second Australian Open title when the year’s first major gets underway in Melbourne on January 18.
Sharapova has won five grand slam titles and her single Australian Open triumph came in 2008.
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