Defending Brisbane International champion Maria Sharapova has withdrawn from the 2016 event due to a left forearm injury.
She was due to play Tuesday afternoon against countrywoman Ekaterina Makarova and will be replaced in the draw by another Russian, lucky loser Margarita Gasparyan.
The world No.4 practised Tuesday morning on Pat Rafter Arena, but made the call not to risk furthering her sore arm.
“I hurt my forearm in practice a couple days ago and need to precautionary withdraw with the Australian Open starting soon,” she said in a statement. “This is such a special event for me, especially being the defending champion. I’m looking forward to seeing all my fans in Brisbane next year.”