Aegon Classic organisers confident of success despite Sharapova’s withdrawal

Organisers of the Aegon Classic tennis tournament in Birmingham are still optimistic of the event’s success despite the loss of the main draw.

Maria Sharapova has been forced to withdraw from the tournament – which begins tomorrow (June 17) – at the Edgbaston Priory Club due to an on-going injury problem.

The former world No.1, only back on the circuit for a few months following the end of her drugs ban, sustained an injury the injury to her left hip muscle during a tournament in Rome.

Sharapova said: “I’m disappointed to withdraw from this year’s Aegon Classic Birmingham. I was very much looking forward to returning to the place I won my first grass court title as a 17-year-old and will miss seeing all the loyal fans that come out to support this terrific event.

“It’s already on my calendar for next year. My main priority now is getting back healthy to the sport I love.”

Her withdrawal may have deprived fans of a star draw but the tournament still boasts one of its strongest ever line-ups with eight of the world’s top 10 players accompanied by two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova.

Sharapova’s wildcard will revert back to the tournament director.

LTA chief executive Michael Downey said: “It’s a shame for Maria and the fans of Birmingham that her injury from Rome hasn’t healed in time for this year’s Aegon Classic.

“We wish Maria well in her recovery because her health must come first. We also look forward to welcoming her back to Birmingham for next year’s tournament given her commitment to play.

“That said, our player field is still exceptionally strong with eight of the world’s top 10, British No.1 Johanna Konta, French Open finalist Simona Halep, and returning two-time former champion Petra Kvitova all in the main draw, which kicks off on June 19. It’s nothing short of a blockbuster line-up.”