Next week’s Rogers Cup has been hit with a duo of high profile pull-outs in both the men’s and women’s draw.
Maria Sharapova has confirmed her absence from the Toronto tournament due to a left forearm injury. Yesterday the Russian pulled out of the Bank of West Classic in Stanford due to the problem. Sharapova has only played one match since June after missing the entire grass-court swing due to a thigh injury.
“I am so sorry to be missing Rogers Cup this year.” Sharapova said in a statement released by Tennis Canada.
“I am so appreciative to the tournament for the wild card and my fans in Toronto for their support. I am disappointed that injury is keeping me from the tennis court once again, and I will work as hard as I can to return to the game I love as soon as possible.”
Giving a brief insight into her latest injury on Wednesday, Sharapova explained that she has been advised by a doctor to rest her arm. Although, she didn’t elaborate on the severity of the issue.
The setback comes as Sharapova bids to play her first grand slam since returning from a doping ban at the US Open. Currently ranked 171st in the world, she is not in a position to automatically qualify for the main draw. Her hopes rest on being awarded a wild card. Earlier this year the French Open refused to give to her a pass into their event. If she fails to receive one, she will have to play in the qualifying tournament.
Sharapova’s best result at the Rogers Cup was reaching the final back in 2009.
Cilic out
In Montreal, where the men’s tournament will take place, Marin Cilic has withdrawn due to an abductor injury. Confirming his decision on Facebook, the former US Open champion said he developed the injury whilst playing at Wimbledon. Cilic reached the final at SW19 before losing in straight sets to Roger Federer.
“With great regret I have to announce that I won’t be able to participate at the upcoming ATP Masters 1000 event in Montreal, to be played next week.” Cilic wrote on Facebook.
“Until the very last moment I was hoping that improvement concerning my injury will be good enough, but I am forced to withdraw from the Coupe Rogers event.”
Cilic is the second top 10 player to withdraw from the tournament in as many days. Stan Wawrinka has also skipped the event as he continues to nurse a knee injury.
Replacing the Croat in the main draw will be Daniil Medvedev of Russia.
