Injured Venus Williams Withdraws From U.S. Open
Credit: EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images
Venus Williams will be watching the rest of the U.S. Open from the sidelines.
VIDEO: Venus' sister Serena gets bullied for her weight
The 31-year-old tennis player pulled out of the tournament Wednesday, citing medical reasons. Williams was recently diagnosed with Sjogren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease that causes fatigue and joint pain.
PHOTOS: How these stars stay fit
"I enjoyed playing my first match here and wish I could continue but right now I am unable to," she said in a statement. "I am thankful I finally have a diagnosis and am now focused on getting better and returning to the court soon."
PHOTOS: Celebs' favorite healthy snacks
Williams' withdrawal allowed tennis pro Sabine Lisicki to move forward to the third round. "I think she's a tough girl and I think she'll come back," Lisicki said of Williams. "You know, it would be unfortunate if she couldn't."
