Tennis Star Withdraws from Indian Wells Open Due to Forearm Injury

INDIAN WELLS, CA - A left forearm injury forced Maria Sharapova to withdraw Thursday from the BNP Paribas Open set to begin Monday.

"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 percent ready to play this event, as it is one of my favorite events on the WTA and so close to my home in L.A. 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."

The lingering injury also kept Sharapova out of recent tournaments in Qatar and Australia.

Sharapova won the BNP Paribas Open in 2006 and 2013.

Sharapova's withdrawal moves Mariana Duque-Marino into the main draw.

"We are disappointed that Maria is unable to play in this year's BNP Paribas Open as she is a terrific competitor and a fan favorite in Indian Wells," said tournament CEO Raymond Moore. "We wish her a speedy recovery, and look forward to having her back next year."

The tournament will last from Monday through March 20.

– By City News Service.