Victoria Azarenka has won the previous two editions of the Qatar Total Open trophy.
Two-time defending champion and world No.2, Victoria Azarenka of Belarus, has withdrawn from the Qatar Total Open 2014 due to foot inflammation.
Azarenka said of her withdrawal, “I am sorry I can’t make it to Doha for the Qatar Total Open, but unfortunately I haven’t been able to recover on time from my ongoing foot injury. I am thankful to all my fans in Doha and I look forward to coming back next year. I wish the best of luck to the tournament and hope that fans enjoy watching the other players that will be coming to that great event.”
Tournament Director, Saad al-Mohannadi, said of her withdrawal, “We are disappointed that Victoria cannot join us at this year’s event but we wish her a quick recovery and best of luck for the rest of the season. Victoria has promised us that she will be back next year and we look forward to welcoming her to Doha once more.”
Azarenka first won the Doha title in 2012 when she defeated Australia’s Sam Stosur in the final. She returned last year to defend her title – which she did successfully by defeating American Serena Williams in the final.
This withdrawal also means that Azarenka won’t be able to win the Diamond Ball Trophy awarded to the player who has won the Qatar Total open three times.
Her withdrawal sees Annika Beck (GER) gain direct entry into the main draw.
