The Miami Open begins in a few days; unfortunately, major names continue to withdraw.
Serena Williams, a hometown favorite and ticket draw, is the latest Grand Slam champion to withdraw from the Miami Open.
Williams, who lives in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, has won the event a record eight times, most recently in 2015.
Williams pulled out Sunday, citing recent oral surgery. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer announced earlier they would skip the tournament, which begins Tuesday.
As an ATP Tour Masters 1000 event, the tournament is worth up to 1000 ATP Rankings points to the singles and doubles champions. On both the ATP and the WTA, this is the third-highest level of event. Headlining names are placing the value of rest, healing, and family ahead of the tournament.
The 2020 Miami Open was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“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.”
Williams’ most recent match was a month ago at the Australian Open, where she lost to Naomi Osaka in the semifinals.
The Associated Press has contributed to this column
