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Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open due to surgery

She joins several other top players who have pulled out of the tournament

serena-williams-naomi-osaka-aus-open-twi Serena Williams in action during her semifinal match against Naomi Osaka | via Twitter/@AustralianOpen

Tennis superstar Serena Williams announced on Sunday that she will not participate in the Miami Open as she is recovering from oral surgery. She said in a statement that she is looking forward to “coming back soon”.

The 23-time grand slam champion joins several other top players, including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, who have pulled out of the tournament.

“I am disappointed to withdraw from the Miami Open because of recent oral surgery,” the statement read.

“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, but I look forward to coming back soon.”

Serena has won the Miami Open title eight times. Tournament director James Blake also expressed his disappointment over not having the 39-year-old tennis star at the event.

“We will certainly miss having Serena at this year’s tournament and I know it was a very difficult decision for her,” Blake told the Miami Herald.

“She has won the Miami Open more than any player in history, has a home here in South Florida, and is always a fan favorite. We hope she is back on the court soon and look forward to welcoming her back here next year.”

Serena last played in the Australian Open in February this year and lost to eventual champion Naomi Osaka in the semifinal.

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