Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open

Serena Williams has pulled out of this week’s Miami Open after having oral sur­gery.

The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion was knocked out of the Australian Open semi-finals by Naomi Osaka in January.

“I am disappointed to withdraw,” said 39-year-old Williams, who has won the Miami Open eight times.

“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.”

The men’s draw has al­ready been depleted by the withdrawals of world num­ber one Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Na­dal and world number four Dominic Thiem.—BBC

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