Maria Sharapova Will Only Play Doubles

Yesterday, rumors swirled that Maria Sharapova, who has been recovering from a right shoulder injury, would withdraw from the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, which takes place next week. Sharapova, however, will be competing at Indian Wells, but it will not be in singles. She will play doubles next week with Elena Vesnina.

This news has been confirmed by her website:

“Maria will be making her comeback from her shoulder injury at the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells which begins on March 11th. Maria will not compete in the singles competition, but will compete in the doubles tournament with Elena Vesnina. Maria has never played with Vesnina before and this is Maria’s 1st doubles tournament in nearly 4 years.

‘I am excited to be playing competitive tennis again,’ said Maria. ‘The healing process takes time, and requires things to move more slowly than I would like, but I am taking things one step at a time. I look forward to playing at the BNP Paribas Open, it is definitely one of my favorite tournaments in the world.’

‘We are very glad that Maria will be competing at the BNP Paribas Open,’ said tournament director Steve Simon. ‘It is great to see her healthy and back on the court. The game has missed her and we wish her the best of luck and hope she has a great tournament.’ ”

(Image via Down the Line)