Azarenka sets up Halep clash in Brisbane

Maria Sharapova’s preparations for the Australian Open have taken a blow, with the world number four a late withdrawal from the Brisbane International with a forearm injury.

Sharapova, who is the defending champion, suffered the injury while practicing last week and subsequently made the decision to withdraw prior to her first round match against Ekaterina Makarova on Tuesday afternoon.

“I hurt my forearm in practice a couple days ago and need to precautionary withdraw with the Australian Open starting in just a matter of time”, Sharapova said.

Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia plays a shot in her match against Roberta Vinci of Italy during the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane, Australia, Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016.

The WTA Brisbane International has lost more of its star power after top seed Simona Halep succumbed to a left leg injury.

A lucky loser will be named to play Makarova later on Tuesday on Pat Rafter Arena.

The 31-year-old has frequently failed to hit the heights on home turf, having never won a tournament or progressed past the fourth round at the Australian Open, and bemoaned on Sunday the unfair emphasis she received for her domestic form.

The former world number one has been plagued by injuries in the last two years which have sent her down to 22nd in the world rankings but showed little signs of rust against qualifier Vesnina.

“It’s been a while to be out there playing an actual match. I’m looking forward to seeing all my fans in Brisbane next year”.

Foot and thigh injuries have interrupted her past two seasons. She was replaced in the draw by lucky loser Ysaline Bonaventure of Belgium.

Despite her comeback’s early stage, Azarenka relished the prospect of taking on former French Open finalist Halep ahead of the Australian Open.

“I have just to take a few days’ rest”.