Fatigued Sharapova withdraws from Rogers Cup

CARSON, California, Aug 13 (Reuters) Maria Sharapova has pulled out of next week's Rogers Cup in Montreal because of fatigue, joining a growing list of big-name withdrawals.

The Russian world number four ended a run of nine matches in 13 days with a semi-final defeat by compatriot Elena Dementieva at the Los Angeles Open yesterday.

''I'm deeply saddened to have to withdraw from the Rogers Cup,'' Sharapova said in a statement after losing 7-5 6-2 in sapping afternoon heat at the Home Depot Center.

''Unfortunately, my body is very fatigued because of the extensive number of matches that I have played over a short period of time, and I don't feel that I can perform at the level required.'' Sharapova, the tournament's top seed, had not dropped a set in an eight-match winning streak before being upset by third-seeded Dementieva.

''I have played nine matches in the last 13 days and that pretty much sums it up,'' said the 19-year-old, who won last week's Acura Classic in San Diego.

''I just felt a little flat. I was tired, even in the warm-up.

''I put two points together and then would deflate for the next four. But I guess that's normal after playing so many matches in a row.'' The Rogers Cup has already been rocked by the withdrawals of world number three Justine Henin-Hardenne, Wimbledon champion Amelie Mauresmo, Venus Williams, Mary Pierce, Patty Schnyder and Vera Zvonareva.

World number two Kim Clijsters of Belgium is the top seed in the hardcourt tournament which starts on Monday, two weeks before the US Open, the final grand slam tournament of the year.

REUTERS PM KP0909