Tennis: Pierce withdraws from ASB Classic

Former world No 3 Mary Pierce has withdrawn from next week's ASB Classic women's tennis tournament in Auckland for medical reasons.

Pierce, ranked 29 in the world, was to be the third seed at the tournament.

Her agent sent confirmation of the injury today to tournament director Richard Palmer stating that "for medical reasons she will not be making it to New Zealand".

Palmer was consigned to losing one of his major drawcards.

"Mary's withdrawal is extremely disappointing however it is a reality in sport at all levels that players do get injured," he said.

"Already most of the players are in Auckland. A number have been in the city for several days practicing. The tournament still has a top-class field."

Russian Alina Jidkova, ranked 55, will move into the eighth seed position as a result of Pierce's absence.

- NZPA