Sharapova delays possible Fed Cup debut for Russia

California, March 9 (IANS)Maria Sharapova confirmed that she does not have the stamina to make a Fed Cup team debut for Russia just days after competing in two major hardcourt Masters events in the US.

The 2004 teenaged Wimbledon winner, seeded third at the Indian Wells Masters, which began Wednesday, will miss a tie against Belgium in April on clay in Liege.

"My body is just not ready after two tough tournaments to go and play Fed Cup," said Sharapova, who has spent nearly a decade in Florida.

"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."

Belgium will feature a powerhouse pair in Justine Henin-Hardenne and Kim Clijsters, who have both committed to a rare appearance together - their first in three years. Russia will likely rely on Elena Dementieva and Qatar champion Nadia Petrova.