Serena Williams out of the Australian Open

Serena Williams today confirmed she has withdrawn from Australian Open 2011, according to a news release from the tournament organisers.

“As I continue to rehabilitate my foot after the second surgery last month, it is with the utmost regret that I am withdrawing from the Hopman Cup and the 2011 Australian Open Championships,” Serena Williams said today.

“As I recently learned, pushing myself back into my intense training too early only caused me further injury and damage.

“While I desperately want to be back on the court and competing in the first Grand Slam tournament of the year, it is imperative for my health that I continue to work with my doctors to ensure my foot heals properly.

“This decision, though heavy on my heart, is the right one. I am praying for a healthy recovery and I promise my Aussie fans and my fans around the world that I will be back better than ever as soon as I can be.”

Williams has been in regular contact with Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley and made her decision after receiving further medical advice.

“I know how disappointing it will be for Serena that she’s unable to come back and defend her title at Australian Open 2011. We all know how much she enjoys playing here, and how much she loves her Aussie fans,” Tiley said.

“Serena is a great champion and we will miss her in January. We send her our very best wishes for a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming her back to Australia soon.”

Williams has also withdrawn from the Hopman Cup in Perth, where she was due to compete for the USA with John Isner.  Bethanie Mattek-Sands will replace her in Team USA.

Great Britain, last year’s finalist, with Andy Murray partnering Laura Robson, will become the second seeds, said a statement from the Hopman Cup. Belgium’s seven time Grand Slam Champion, Justine Henin, and Steve Darcis become the third seeds, with Italy, led by world number 7 and the current French Open Champion Francesca Schiavone and partner Potito Starace, are promoted to the 4th seeded position, with USA now unseeded.

Topics: Andy Murray, Aussie Fans, Australia, Australian Open, Australian Open Tennis, Australian Tennis, Bethanie Mattek, Craig Tiley, French Open, French Open Champion, Grand Slam Champion, Grand Slam Tournament, Grand Slams, Heavy On My Heart, Hopman Cup, Intense Training, John Isner, Justine Henin, Medical Advice, Serena Williams, Speedy Recovery, Sports, Team Usa, Tournament Director, Tournament Organisers, USA

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