Sharapova withdraws from Brisbane

Maria Sharapova has pulled out of next month's Brisbane International because of an ankle injury, tournament organisers have announced.

The Russian former world number one is confident of being fit for the Australian Open which gets under way on January 16.

"I was really looking forward to starting my 2012 season at the Brisbane International, which has a fantastic reputation as a great and welcoming event," Sharapova said on www.brisbaneinternational.com.au.

"Unfortunately my ankle is not 100 % and I won't be able to make it this year.

"I do expect to be ready for the year's first Grand Slam and I am really looking forward to competing on court."