Venus Williams withdraws from Wimbledon citing injury

Venus Williams returns a serve at Australian Open against Galina Voskoboeva, earlier this year. PHOTO/Getty Images

Five time Wimbledon champion Venus Williams has pulled out of this year’s tournament because of an ongoing lower back injury.

Venus Williams, 33, – who has won seven Grand Slam titles in all – also pulled out of the doubles there with her sister Serena because of her back problem.

“Unfortunately, I will not be able to participate in Wimbledon this year,” Williams said on her Facebook page.
“I am extremely disappointed as I have always loved The Championships, but I need to take time to let my back heal.
“I look forward to returning to the courts as soon as possible, with my goal being to return to Mylan World Team Tennis on July 8th in Washington DC.

“Many thanks to my fans for the love and support and I will be seeing you very soon back on the courts,” said Williams, who won the last of her Wimbledon singles titles back in 2008.

Copyright 2013 AFP