Australian Open champion Ashleigh Barty has announced her withdrawal from the Indian Wells Masters and Miami Open tournaments following her Grand Slam win.
The 25-year-old's last appearance on the court saw her beat Danielle Collins to win the Australian Open title back in January, and she has won the last two editions of the Miami Open.
However, Barty has claimed that she does not believe she is at the "necessary level" to compete for the titles after a gruelling Australian Open run, and the world number one will instead aim to make her comeback in April.
A statement from Barty read: "Unfortunately my body has not recovered the way I'd hoped after the Australian Open and I have not been able to adequately prepare for Indian Wells and Miami.
"I don't believe I am at the level necessary to win these events and as a result I have decided to withdraw from both tournaments. I love these events and am sad not to be there competing but getting my body right must be my focus.
"My aim is to represent my country at the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup event in April. After missing the BJK Cup last year I can't wait to wear the green and gold again.
"On a more important note, it has been a tough few weeks at home in Australia and around the world. I send all of my thoughts and best wishes to everyone in Queensland and New South Wales who have been affected by the devastating floods. To the people of Ukraine, especially my peers in the tennis family, we are all thinking of you and hope for peace."
Barty remains undefeated in 2022 after clinching the Adelaide International singles and doubles titles in the warm-up to the Australian Open.
Ben Knapton
