His decision to skip the away tie against Taiwan was announced by father and mentor Chanachai and it came as no surprise. Paradorn has been affected by right wrist tendinitis since the Asian Games last December but persisted to enter in three events including the Australian Open before bowing out haplessly in the first round, which triggered widespread criticism.

"We came to the conclusion that he is not in a condition to play. It'd be better that he remains in Bangkok and rest,'' said Chanachai on behalf of his son, who was not available for comment.

But he remained positive that the tennis star would recover in time for the season's first Masters Series in Indian Wells in March.

Paradorn earlier insisted that his injury was not critical amid critical remarks in the sport circles that suggested he undergo a surgery.

Instead he opted for an ultrasound treatment in Bangkok last December and it now appears that it has not paid dividends.

Paradorn has never been absent from Davis Cup ties since 1999. He has been the backbone of the team and played a significant role in Thailand's four appearances in the World Group Play-offs.

His withdrawal will be a setback for Thailand in the tie against Taiwan, which will take place in Taipei from February 9-11. Teenager Weerapat Doakmaiklee will fill the vacancy.

Thai No 2 Danai Udomchoke, who yesterday rocketed to his career-best No 77 in the world rankings following a strong show in the Australian Open, will have to shoulder the burden.

A surprise third-round berth in Melbourne together with a quarter-final place in Durban last week propelled Danai from 102 to 77, the first time he had cracked the top 80.

Thailand will also have to rely heavily on twins Sonchat and Sanchai Ratiwatana for the doubles.

They will face two talented players Lu Yen-hsun and Wang Yeu-tzuoo.

Meanwhile, Russian tennis star Maria Sharapova has already put her Australian Open disappointment behind her and is spearheading the Pan Pacific Open tennis tournament this week.

The 19-year-old top seed has returned to the top of the world rankings after reaching Saturday's final at the Australian Open, which she lost 6-1 6-2 to an inspired Serena Williams.

"Losing is never fine, but at the end of the day, to be in the final of a Grand Slam in the first tournament of the year, I'm proud of it," said Sharapova.

"The rankings never lie. I had a great end of the year last year and I hope I can take that into this year, but I'm excited at an opportunity to get back to be number one."

In Tokyo, Sharapova is expected to face tough opposition in another former world No 1, Martina Hingis of Switzerland.

Lerpong Amsa-ngiam

The Nation