Williams Withdraws From Australian Open

Written by: Staff on 10th January 2012

Williams Withdraws From Australian Open |

Without too much surprise, ailing Venus Williams has pulled out of the Australian Open, the first of the American sister act to abandon this year’s edition of the first major of 2012.

Younger sister Serena is trying to heal an ankle injury in hopes of being on the starting line for the family when the event begins on Monday. Venus said on her webpage that she is still not fit enough for the stress of a major as she controls Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease that can cause fatigue and joint pain.

She was first diagnosed with the problem last summer and played one match at the US Open before pulling out, the last time the 31-year-old stepped onto a court.

The No. 100 looks to be nearing the end of a career which has yielded seven major titles. “I regret to announce that I am withdrawing from the 2012 Australian Open. After several months of training and treatment, I am making steady progress to top competitive form,” said the five-time Wimbledon winner on her website.

“My diet and fitness regimen have allowed me to make great strides in terms of my health and I am very close to being ready to return to WTA competition.”

Topics: Australian Open, Venus Williams