Dinara Safina has withdrawn from the Brisbane international.
Safina has advised tournament officials she is withdrawing from the event due to a back injury and will not be fit in time for the January 3–10 event.
Brisbane International Tournament Director Steve Ayles said that Safina was disappointed she would not be attending the tournament.
“Safina was very much looking forward to starting her year in Brisbane and it is a real shame that she will not be fit in time to attend,” Ayles said.
“I know she would have been working around the clock to try to be ready for the event but in the end time has beat her and she is still undergoing treatment.
“We wish her well with her return to tennis and would welcome her back to the Brisbane International in 2011.
“Despite this loss we still have a very strong Brisbane International women’s draw in 2010.
“With Justine Henin, Kim Clijsters, Ana Ivanovic and Jelena Dokic we have some real star power and depth, creating a great mix for spectators and a huge buzz around Brisbane.
“The 2010 event is shaping up to be even bigger and better than last year and it is going to be very exciting to see who’s going to start their 2010 season in the best possible way – in good form and with a title win in Brisbane.”
Brisbane International 2010 series packages and single sessions are on sale now. Ground passes remain $9.90 with the qualifying event on Friday 1–2 January 2010 remaining free.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketek.com.au or 1300 888 104.