Sharapova aims for Melbourne

Maria Sharapova hopes to be fit to defend her Australian Open title in January, despite pulling out of an exhibition event in Hong Kong next month.

In a statement posted on her website, Sharapova said she regretted pulling out of the JB Group Classic team tennis tournament in from January 7-10.

"It's with much disappointment that I have to withdraw from Hong Kong," the statement says.

"I've been using this event for the last five years to get match fit and ready for the new season, in fact Hong Kong has been successful in preparing me for the Australian Open." 

Sharapova launched her 2008 season in style with victory in Melbourne.

But the 21-year-old was hindered by a right shoulder injury much of the year. She skipped the Beijing Olympics and the US Open before having arthroscopic surgery in October.

"I'm just not ready to play against the top-class competition in Hong Kong, although I remain hopeful for Australia where I'm the defending champion," she said.

The Australian Open, first Grand Slam of the season, starts in Melbourne on January 19.

"Believe me, it's been a very difficult decision, but I only started practising 16 days ago," she said.

The Hong Kong event has a new format this year, featuring four teams - Europe, Russia, Team Americas and Asia Pacific.

Top players slated to appear include world number one Jelena Jankovic and Wimbledon champion Venus Williams.