Maria won't play for Russia against Belgium

Maria Sharapova has confirmed that she won't play for Russia as they launch their defence of the Fed Cup title against Belgium in April.

The tennis glamour girl, who has vociferously denied that she doesn't want to represent her homeland in the women's nations tournament, nonetheless said on Wednesday it would be too taxing to follow the WTA tier one hardcourt events here and in Miami, Florida, with the first-round tie in Belgium. "My body is just not ready after two tough tournaments to go and play Fed Cup," said Maria.


"It's my own personal decision, and I'm not going to be influenced by what anyone else does. "I won't be forced into it. My body just isn't ready to go from hard courts to clay courts that quickly."