Sharapova skips Miami tennis due to shoulder injury

WASHINGTON, March 22 (Xinhua) -- World number five Maria Sharapova of Russia has decided to skip next week's Sony Ericsson Open in Miami because of a shoulder injury, organizers said on Saturday.

The 20-year-old hinted she might withdraw from the Masters Series event after losing 6-3, 5-7 and 6-2 to fellow Russian Svetlana Kuznetsova in the Pacific Life Open semi-finals at Indian Wells, California on Friday.

The defeat ended her winning streak of 18 matches that included her third grand slam title at the Australian Open in January.

"We wish Maria a speedy recovery and hope she is able to return to the court quickly," tournament director Adam Barrett said in a statement.

On Friday, Sharapova said she needed a break from the game because of fatigue after a hectic tournament schedule since the start of the year.

"I'm playing a lot of tennis, been flying a lot," said the Russian, "It's pretty much been non-stop with all the tournaments I've been playing and Fed Cup as well. It takes a toll on your body and your mind as well.

"If I'm not going to be ready, I'm not going to be ready. No one's forcing me to go out there and play."