Sharapova out of Paris Open

Russian superstar Maria Sharapova pulled out of the WTA Paris Open tournament due to illness on Thursday as Kim Clijsters eyed a return to the top of the world rankings.

Sharapova, the world number 13, has been suffering from a throat infection since the weekend and consulted a doctor on Thursday morning before deciding to pull out, having been granted a place in the draw as a wild card.

"I've really done everything to be ready, but unfortunately, I'm unable to play," Sharapova said in a statement.

"I want to apologise to my fans and to thank the tournament for having been so understanding and supporting me."

Sharapova was replaced by 'lucky loser' Stephanie Cohen-Aloro of France who went on to lose 7-5, 6-3 to America's Bethanie Mattek-Sands in the second round.

Australian Open champion Clijsters will replace Denmark's Caroline Wozniacki if she wins her quarter-final tie on Friday.

The Belgian, who was top for 12 weeks in 2003 and seven in 2006 before her retirement and subsequent return to the game two years later. AFP