Venus Williams out of Rogers Cup with illness

Seven-time grand slam winner Venus Williams (pictured), has pulled out of the forthcoming Rogers Cup tournament in Toronto with a viral illness.

The American was due to face Serb Ana Ivanovic in a first round clash on Tuesday, but will now be replaced in the draw by Chinese qualifier Zhang Shuai.

The extra berth created by the 31-year-old Williams’ withdrawal has been given to Spain’s Lourdes Dominguez Lino.

“I was really excited to play Toronto,” world number 34 Williams told the tournament’s official web site.

“I came here ready to go and was practicing. I wasn’t feeling very well and had to see the doctor today. I was diagnosed with a viral illness and unfortunately am unable to play. I am extremely disappointed. I’m very sorry to the fans and tournament.”

Williams has struggled with injury in recent years and has not played competitively since Wimbledon in June and July.

Her last WTA Tour title came at the Dubai Tennis Championships in February 2010.

Despite Williams pulling out of the event, the Rexall Centre tournament still boasts a top-level field including her sister Serena, Caroline Wozniacki, the number two ranked Kim Clijsters.

Source: CNN