Sharapova drops out of Kremlin Cup

U.S. Open champion Maria Sharapova pulled out of the Kremlin Cup on Friday because of a right foot strain.

The second-seeded Russian beat Eketerina Bychkova in straight sets on Wednesday and should have faced Anna Chakvetadze in the quarterfinals on Friday.

"Unfortunately, I will not be able to play today," Sharapova said.

"I felt pain in my right hip back in the hotel after my first match here.

" I couldn't practice and even walk yesterday. I have to pull out. I'm really disappointed but I have no choice."

On her debut at a home event last season, the then top-ranked Sharapova lost to Dinara Safina in the quarterfinals.