Sharapova, ill, withdraws from Dubai event

Maria Sharapova, undefeated so far this year, withdrew Tuesday from the Dubai Tennis Championships because of a viral illness.

Sharapova, ranked fifth in the world and seeded fifth at the talent-laden Dubai championships, won the Australian Open and last week's tournament in Qatar while running her 2008 record to 14-0. She was replaced in the Dubai draw by Akiko Morigami.

I was really excited to come to Dubai this week and was very much looking forward to playing the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships, Sharapova said in a statement.

Unfortunately I have been battling a virus for several days and it's reached a point where I'm unable to compete. This is really disappointing to me, but I do intend to come back to Dubai next year and hopefully have a great tournament.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International