Venus Williams Withdraws From the Australian Open

Venus Williams became the second leading American in two days to withdraw from next week’s Australian Open when she notified organizers today that she was pulling out because of tendinitis in her left wrist.

Monica Seles, a four-time champion, withdrew Tuesday saying she was not ready to play after a foot injury suffered last October.

Williams was replaced as the No. 3-seeded woman by her younger sister, Serena, winner at last year’s U.S. Open.

“I’m really sad to miss the first Grand Slam because I’ve been working really hard and I was really looking forward to playing,” Venus Williams said.