Venus Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam champion and former No.1 who was set to take on No.22 seed Sabine Lisicki on Ashe Stadium, had to pull out of her home Grand Slam after being diagnosed with Sjögren’s Syndrome.
“I’m really disappointed to have to withdraw from this year’s US Open,” Williams said. “I have been recently diagnosed with Sjögren’s Syndrome, an autoimmune disease which is an ongoing medical condition that affects my energy level and causes fatigue and joint pain. I enjoyed playing my first match and wish I could continue but right now I am unable to. I am thankful I finally have a diagnosis and am now focused on getting better and returning to the court soon.”
Lisicki, who had won 23 of her last 27 matches but had lost her most recent meeting with Williams handily in Dubai last year, held a press conference to discuss the events. “I just found out a half hour ago or so. I was getting ready for my match and was in the locker room. That’s when the referee told me.
“I saw Venus and heard she practiced as usual. I saw her in match clothes so was fully prepared and really looking forward to the match. I love those big matches and playing against Venus – we had two amazing matches the last two meetings. But that’s tennis. It’s unfortunate and I hope she will be fine quick.
“She’s a tough girl and I think she’ll come back. Serena and Venus are amazing players and it’s nice to have them in the sport. It makes it more challenging.”
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I hope you get better soon Venus.
My thoughts are with you and your family.