Kim Clijsters has withdrawn from the BNP Paribas Open with an ankle problem.

The Belgian twisted her ankle in the first set of her Australian Open fourth-round win over Li Na.

After battling through to the semi-final of the tournament, and toppling then-world number one Carlonie Wozniacki in the process, the 28-year-old lost out to eventual champion Victoria Azarenka.

"I'm very disappointed that my ankle injury is preventing me from playing the BNP Paribas Open this year," Clijsters said in a statement released by the tournament.

"Indian Wells has been a very special tournament for me, winning in 2003 and again in 2005 when I returned from injury.

"I have great memories of Indian Wells and have always enjoyed the fan support there. I wish the tournament a great success this year."

Clijsters has won four Grand Slam tournaments during her career, capturing the US Open title three times.