The two-time champion in Paris will not be able to compete due to a shoulder injury.

Last year Sharapova was knocked out of the year’s second Grand Slam with a 6-2, 6-1 drubbing at the hands of Spain’s Garbiñe Muguruza.

Sharapova advanced from the round of 16 after Serena Williams withdrew an hour before the match.

Sharapova confirmed that she will not be competing this year, however, she has returned to the practice court.

“Withdrawing from the French Open today (Thursday).

Sometimes the right decisions aren’t always the easiest ones.

“In better news, I have returned to the practice court, and slowly building the strength back in my shoulder. I really miss you Paris, until next year.”

Sharapova has had a long history with shoulder issues which dates back to 2007.

The 32-year-old is still looking to regain the same form she had before being banned from the sport for doping in 2016.

At the beginning of the 2019 season during the Shenzhen Open in China, she beat Timea Bacsinszky in straight sets during the opening round in which was also her 800th career singles match

The 2019 French Open will start on 26 May, with the men’s singles final being played on 9 June.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport