Serena Williams will not have the chance to add to her eight Miami Open Masters title.
The American tennis superstar and legend announced her withdrawal from the event over the weekend.
The 39-year-old stated that she would be missing her hometown tournament due to the need to recover from oral surgery.
“I am disappointed to withdraw from the Miami Open because of recent oral surgery,” Williams started.
“Miami is a special tournament for me because it’s my home and I am sad I won’t be able to see the incredible fans this year, but I look forward to coming back soon,” the 23-time Grand Slam winner said to the media.
The younger of the Williams sisters is the latest high profile tennis star to pull out of the tournament following in the footsteps of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, a decision the tournament’s director, James Blake says will rob fans of their favourite.
“We will certainly miss having Serena at this year’s tournament and I know it was a very difficult decision for her. She has won the Miami Open more than any player in history, has a home here in South Florida, and is always a fan favorite. We hope she is back on the court soon and look forward to welcoming her back here next year,” Blake stated.
Williams’ withdrawal is another blow to the tournament which was cancelled last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Miami Open Masters tournament was cancelled last year due to COVID-19 pandemic but will host around 1,000 fans per session this year.
It will take place between 22 March and 4 April.
