Serena Williams has become the latest high-profile player to withdraw from the Miami Open, joining Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
The 23-time grand slam champion announced her withdrawal on Sunday in another blow to the prestigious Masters 1000 event which begins on Tuesday.
Williams, who has won the Miami Open a record eight times, cited recent oral surgery as the reason for her withdrawal.
“Miami is a special tournament for me because it’s my home,” she said in a statement.
“I am sad I won’t be able to see the incredible fans this year, but I look forward to coming back soon.”
The news comes as another huge blow for Miami Open organisers, with Djokovic, Nadal and Federer already deciding not to play.
Fans were left shattered by the news.
Serena Williams is the latest superstar player to withdraw from Miami. It’s turning into an absolute disaster for @MiamiOpen before the tournament has even started! Both No 1s on both tours already withdrawn. I just hope lessons are learnt as many predicted this months ago.
