( CNN ) -- Three-time major winner Maria Sharapova has been forced to withdraw from January 's Brisbane International event because of an ankle injury . The 24-year-old Russian suffered the injury in September 's Pan Pacific Open , and she has failed to shake off the problem . Sharapova released a statement saying : `` 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 . Venus may miss Australian Open . `` Unfortunately my ankle is not 100 % and I wo n't be able to make it this year . '' However , Sharapova still believes she will be fit for the Australian Open , which gets underway in Melbourne on January 16 . `` I do expect to be ready for the year 's first grand slam and I am really looking forward to competing on court , '' added Sharapova , who won the Australian Open in 2008 . Despite Sharapova 's absence , the Brisbane tournament -- which begins on New Year 's Day -- still has a strong entry list with Serena Williams , Samantha Stosur and Kim Clijsters all confirmed starters .
Maria Sanchez has pulled out of January 's Brisbane International tournament . Three - time major winner Serena is suffering from an ankle injury . The player expects to be fit for the Australian Open which she won in 2008 .