Venus Williams Pulls Out Of Cincinnati Open

Venus Williams has pulled out of next week’s Cincinnati Open due to a knee injury.

The former world number one complained of feeling pain in her knee when she returned to full practice last week and has been advised by doctors.

The Cincinnati tournament would be the first time that Williams had played since Wimbledon earlier in the summer as she prepared for the U.S. Open in three weeks time.

Speaking to the AFT she said: "During the last three weeks, I returned to my normal practice schedule and last week began to experience pain in my left knee.

"My medical advisors and physio have recommended that I refrain from competition until I am pain free. Unfortunately, I am not at a point where I can commit to competing next week."

Venus joins her sister Serena on the side line after the world number one cut her foot on broken glass just a few weeks ago.

Despite both Serena and Venus being absent from the event, which gets underway tomorrow, eight of the world top ten will be in action.

World number two Jelena Jankovic will be the top seed at the event.

FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw