Russia's Kournikova pulls out of French Open

Russia's Anna Kournikova has pulled out of the French Open because of a persistent foot injury, organisers said on Tuesday.

Kournikova, who recently delayed her comeback by missing the WTA tournament in Hamburg and the German Open in Berlin, will be replaced by Spain's Maria Jose Martinez.

The 19-year-old Russian, 11th in the WTA rankings, had failed to shine on the Parisian clay court so far, making an exit in the second round last year.

Dutchwoman Yvette Bastings is also out of the Paris tournament through injury, with her place going to American Marissa Irvin.