Sharapova, Hantuchova pull out of German Open

0 Comments | AFP, April, 2008

BERLIN (AFP) — World number three Maria Sharapova and Daniela Hantuchova, tenth in the WTA rankings, have both pulled out of the German Open which starts in Berlin on Monday.

Sharapova pulled out of the German Open for the second year running, without giving a specific reason, while tenth-ranked Hantuchova is suffering from a stress fracture to her foot.

Despite the withdrawals, the WTA event still boasts a strong field with Belgian world number one Justine Henin, as well as defending champion Ana Ivanovic of Serbia, second in the WTA rankings, confirming their appearances.

"I'm really disappointed to be unable to play at the German Open," said Sharapova, who won her third Grand Slam title at the Australian Open earlier this year.

"I'm working hard...