Maria Sharapova made a major announcement on Tuesday. The Russian tennis player won’t compete in the Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic that takes place at San Josè State University from July 30 to August 5 2018.
The former world No. 1 announced her withdrawal, which is the fourth one this year after Dubai, Miami and Birmingham. ‘I am really sorry to have to miss the event in San Jose this year‘, Sharapova said through a statement. ‘I have heard amazing things and I know all the girls are excited to come to play. Unfortunately, I have been forced to make some very tough decisions at this point in my career when it comes to my tournament schedule. I need to take care of my body and make sure I stay healthy. I look forward to coming to play next year.‘
Organizers can still be happy as Venus Williams took a wild card, joining her sister Serena, Victoria Azarenka and Madison Keys among the others. The tournament director Vickie Gunnarsson shared happiness: ‘We are very excited to have Venus join our player field. She and Serena are tennis icons and tremendous ambassadors for the sport. Having them both competing at the Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic is truly special.’
Sharapova lost to her compatriot Vitalia Diatchenko in the opening round match at Wimbledon. She had a busy clay-court season playing four tournaments.