Former world number one Dinara Safina has been forced to accept defeat in her battle to return to action in the remaining part of this season. The Russia has been through a horrific run of injuries this year, with a troublesome back injury restricting Safina's court time. The back problem has been bothering the 25-year old since the turn of the year, with her opening round 6-0 6-0 defeat to Kim Clijsters at the Australian Open evidence of her troubles. The US Open 2011 odds showed she would struggle to make an impact.

The niggling injury failed to clear up though and Safina was then forced to withdraw from both the French Open and Wimbledon, although there was hope that she would be able to return to action in time for the US Open this month. That hasn't happened though and the Russian won't be heading to Flushing Meadows for the final Grand Slam of the year. Instead, Safina will switch her focus to getting back fully fit in time for the start of next season. People placing US Open tennis bets will have to turn their attention elsewhere.

"I'm sorry to report that my back is still acting up. I will not be able to play until at least the end of the season," she said.

Safina's lack of action this season has seen her ranking suffer, the Russian currently down in 65th. The battle will be on the three-time beaten Grand Slam finalist to see if she can get herself back amongst the world's best. Nobody will doubt Safina has the talent to win Grand Slams, the question will be whether or not she has the fitness to achieve her targets.