Venus Williams out of Australian Open
11/01/2012
Tennis star Venus Williams has pulled out of the Australian Open due to her ongoing battle with the muscle condition Sjogren's syndrome.
But the American has vowed to be back on court soon and this could mean fans enjoying hospitality packages at Wimbledon still get to see her in action this summer.
In a statement on her website, she said: "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," stating she expects to be playing again next month.
The form of the player when she does return to competition will give a hint as to whether she can return to her grand slam-winning ways.
Venus Williams is not the only big name pulling out of the Australian Open,with tenth seed in the women's draw Andrea Petkovic having to withdraw with a stress fracture in her lower back.
By Sam Smith