By Sean Bradley
Photo Credit: Natasha Peterson
The four-time grand-slam winner, two-time Indian Wells champion and current No.2 in women’s tennis, Kim Clijsters just dropped out of the 2011 BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, citing a shoulder injury.
While playing Marion Bartoli in the fourth round of the tournament, Clijsters took the first set 6-3, but called in a trainer when Bartoli led 3-1 in the second set. She has been complaining of shoulder troubles during the tournament and has been receiving regular treatment to her shoulder all week.
By dropping out at this stage in the tournament, Clijsters cannot retake the No. 1 place. Caroline Wozniacki currently holds that position and Clijsters would have to have finished better than her to advance positions.
Bartoli goes on to play against Ana Ivanovic in the quarterfinals.