Sharapova pulls out of Kremlin Cup with right foot injury

Sharapova pulls out of Kremlin Cup with right foot injury

U.S. Open champion Maria Sharapova pulled out of the Kremlin Cup on Friday because of a right foot strain.

The second-seeded Russian had a bye in the first round and beat Eketerina Bychkova in straight sets Wednesday. She had been set to take on Anna Chakvetadze in the quarterfinals on Friday.

"Unfortunately, I will not be able to play today," Sharapova said. "I felt pain in my right hip back in the hotel after my first match here. I couldn't practice and even walk yesterday. I have to pull out. I'm really disappointed but I have no choice."

On her debut at a home event last season, the then top-ranked Sharapova lost to Dinara Safina in the quarterfinals.