Two-time Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka has pulled out of the Bank of West Classic in Stanford due to a viral illness.
Azarenka was set to play her first North American tournament since the 2016 Miami Open after giving birth to her son Leo in December. A former champion in Stanford back in 2010, the Belarusian previously stated her intention to play at the event as part of her comeback before illness struck.
“I am very sad not to be able to compete in Stanford next week.” Azarenka said in a statement. “I’ve been feeling sick with a viral illness all week and therefore will not be able to compete next week.”
“The tournament, which is one of the best of the year, was marked on my calendar from the day I planned my return to the tour after giving birth to Leo. I am very sad not to be able to play in front of the amazing fans in Stanford. I hope to be back next year.”
The 27-year-old return to the tour in June at the Mallorca Open where she reached the second round. Then at the Wimbledon Championships, she progressed to the fourth round before going out to Simona Halep.
Azarenka’s withdrawal comes shortly after she received a wildcard into the Western and Southern Open, which will get underway on August 12th. Like Stanford, she is also a former champion of the event after lifting the title back in 2013.
Regardless of Azarenaka’s absence, the Bank of West Classic will feature four top-20 players with Wimbledon champion Garbine Muguruza being the top seed. Also included in the draw will be Petra Kvitova, Madison Keys and Maria Sharapova. Wild card entrant Sharapova will be playing in her first competitive tournament since the Italian Open after missing the grass-court season due to a thigh injury.
Defending champion Johanna Konta has opted not to play this year.
