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Novotna pulls out of Wimbledon warm-up

Worried that her injured ankle might prevent her defending her title at Wimbledon, Jana Novotna has decided not to defend the Eastbourne Championship, which starts tomorrow.

The 30-year-old Czech star has withdrawn from the singles championship, but will get some grasscourt preparation for Wimbledon, which starts June 21, by playing in the doubles competition.

Novotna has been sidelined since twisting her ankle playing in the doubles competition at the French Open week before last.

After spraining my right ankle in the doubles at Roland Garros, I was hoping to still play singles at Eastbourne, but, unfortunately, won't be able to do that,'' Novotna said today.

"I will play doubles with Natasha (Zvereva) and will continue to prepare for Wimbledon. With further rest and practice I'm hopeful everything will be all right by Wimbledon.''

Novotna had been seeded two at the Eastbourne Championship behind Monica Seles. World No. 1 Martina Hingis also will be at Eastbourne but will only play doubles.