MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 18: Serena Williams of the United States leaves court after … [+]
Getty Images
Serena Williams announced on Sunday that she will not be competing at this week ‘s Miami Open as she is undergoing oral surgery.
“I am disappointed to pull out of the Miami Open because of recent oral surgery,” the 23-time Grand Slam champion said in a statement, according to the Miami Herald. “Miami is a special tournament for me because this is my home and I’m sad I can’t see the amazing fans this year, but I’m looking forward to coming back to soon. “
As an eight-time champion in Miami, Williams lost to Naomi Osaka in the Australian Open semifinals last month.
“We will definitely lose Serena at this year’s competition and I know it was a very difficult decision for her,” James Blake, director of the Miami Open competition, said in a statement. Winning the Miami Open more than any player in history, he has a home here in South Florida, and is always popular. ”
“We hope she is back on the court soon and we look forward to welcoming her back here next year,” he said.
Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic withdrew from the previous event.