Serena Williams has announced her decision to withdraw from next week’s US Open due to a hamstring injury.
The 39-year-old – who has won 39 Grand Slam tennis titles – was forced to retire from her first round match at Wimbledon in June, and limped off the court.
Williams hasn’t played competitively since, and has now revealed she will be withdrawing from a tournament which she has won on six occasions.
Posting to Instagram, she wrote: “After careful consideration and following the advice of my doctors and medical team, I have decided to withdraw from the US Open to allow my body to heal completely from a torn hamstring.
“New York is one of the most exciting cities in the world and one of my favourite places to play – I’ll miss seeing the fans but will be cheering everyone on from afar.
“Thank you for your continued support and love. I’ll see you soon.”
Federer & Nadal out of men’s US Open
The news regarding Williams comes after a series of high-profile withdraws from the US Open.
Roger Federer – who reached the quarter-finals at Wimbledon – announced earlier in August that he would be out for “many months” due to impending knee surgery.
The Swiss legend explained: “I also want to give myself a glimmer of hope to return to the tour in some shape or form.
“I am realistic – I know how difficult it is at this age right now to do another surgery and try it.
“But I want to be healthy. I will go through the rehab process with a goal, while I’m still active, which I think is going to help me during this long period of time.”
Meanwhile, fellow 20-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal has been ruled out of the 2021 season due to a foot injury.
The US Open will take place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City, and begins on August 30.
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