Venus Williams pulls out of China Open due to knee injury

BEIJING - American tennis ace Venus Williams, who is recuperating from her knee injury, has pulled out of the China Open.

Venus follows in the footsteps of her World No. one sister Serena and reigning US Open champion Kim Clijsters, who both had to pull out of the event due to foot injuries.

“Venus’ reason for withdrawal was a left knee injury,” tour spokeswoman Gina Clement said.

The tournament would still be a star-studded field, with Russian ace Maria Sharapova being the player to watch.

Sharapova faces a tough opening match against Wimbledon semifinalist and Bulgarian World No. 32 Tsvetana Pironkova, the China Daily reports.

Second seeded Vera Zvonareva also has a tough draw, as she will meet former World No 1 and Russian compatriot Dinara Safina, who is ranked 49 and is in the main draw as a wild card.

Meanwhile, defending champion Svetlana Kuznetsova, No 4 seed Jelena Jankovic and Australian Samantha Stosur are not likely to face any major hurdles until the quarterfinal stage. (ANI)