Petrova joins Italian Open sick list

ROME, May 17 (Reuters)The Italian Open lost another of its top players today when fourth seed Nadia Petrova pulled out after straining a pectoral muscle.

The 23-year-old Russian picked up the injury at the weekend when she beat Justine Henin-Hardenne in the Berlin final to claim her third claycourt title of the year.

Petrova's withdrawal, confirmed by tournament organisers, weakens a field that has already been stripped of several of its biggest names.

World number one and defending champion Amelie Mauresmo pulled out on the eve of the tournament with a stomach upset, while third seed Maria Sharapova was ruled out by a foot injury.

Petrova's injury is not expected to prevent her taking part in the French Open, which starts on May 28.

REUTERS PDS VC2010