US Open News: Sharapova’s exit paves way for Kasatkina

Maria Sharapova, the Russian third seed, saddened fans all over the world after withdrawing from US Open on the eve of the event. Sharapova, who had missed the entire lead up season, bade goodbye to the tennis grand slam in New York because of her right leg injury.

“Unfortunately I will not be able to compete in this year’s US Open. I have done everything possible to get ready but it was just not enough time. To all my amazing fans, I will be back in the Asian swing in a few weeks and look forward to finishing the year healthy and strong,” She made the announcement on her Facebook page.

This unfortunate news was also confirmed by US Open tournament director, David Brewer who confirmed Sharpova’s exit will pave way for the lucky loser, Daria Kasatkina of Russia. She will replace Sharapova and will face her original opponent, WTA Rising Star Daria Gavrilova.

Sharapova had been the highest seeded rival of the World No. 1 Serena Williams but with the former's withdrawal this status has been passed to World No. 6, Ana Ivanovic, the Serbian tennis player and the winner of 2008 French Open. With Williams’ 21-match U.S. Open winning streak - and 28-match major winning streak – the match between her and Sharapova would have been the highlight of the tournament, if Sharapova hadn’t withdrawn and if the pair advanced in the deeper rounds.

Sharapova has had a rough year and this is not first instance when she has stepped back because of her frequent injuries. In 2013, she also skipped the coveted US Open because of a right shoulder injury and also missed the Grand Slam in Flushing Meadows in 2008. She has not played a match after her losing to Williams in Wimbledon semifinals in July and has often cited leg strain as one of the main reasons.

“New York City, this wasn't my year but I will be back!” Sharapova promised in her website.

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