Clijsters suffers Sydney setback
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Clijsters had hoped to defend her title in Sydney
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SYDNEY, Australia -- Kim Clijsters withdrew from the Sydney international on Tuesday and could miss the Australian Open, which starts next week.
The world number two suffered an ankle injury while representing Belgium in last week's Hopman Cup but had been hoping to make a quick comeback.
But Clijsters, the defending champion, aggravated the injury during a practice session.
"I came here hoping to play and defend my title so I'm really disappointed," said Clijsters.
"Melbourne will definitely be in doubt now. I have to think about my future as well. I have to make sure that this doesn't become a chronic injury. I have to get on top of it now."
Clijsters' absence would be a huge blow for the Australian Open, which is already without defending champion Serena Williams.
Also on Tuesday, Jennifer Capriati, the 2001 and 2002 champion, withdrew with a back problem.
Four-times winner Monica Seles and 1995 champion Mary Pierce have also pulled out.
