Sharapova out of Dubai Open with virus

AFP, February, 2008

DUBAI (AFP) — Maria Sharapova, who won the Qatar Open only two days ago, has pulled out of the Dubai Open here with a virus.

The Australian Open champion from Russia was said to be suffering from the problem last week and complained of losing energy in the second second of her three-set win over Vera Zvonareva in Sunday's final in Doha.

"Unfortunately I have been battling a virus for several days and it's reached a point where I'm unable to compete. It's really disappointing," said Sharapova.

Sharapova will be replaced in the Dubai draw by a lucky loser, Akiko Morigami, the world number 50 from Japan.

It's particularly disappointing for the Russian because, having remained unbeaten in 14 matches this year, Sharapova appears to have been in some of the best form of her life.

During this time she has dropped only one ...