USATSI
Serena Williams has joined the growing list of tennis superstars that might not be participating in the upcoming Miami Open. Williams said a recent oral surgery is the reason she might not be playing in the upcoming tournament.
Williams added that the Miami Open is a tournament she looks forward to and expressed disappointed in having to overlook it.
“Miami is a special tournament for me because it’s my home. I am sad I will be unable to see the unbelievable fans this year, but I look forward to coming back soon,” she said in a remark on Sunday.
The tennis icon, who lives in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., has won the tournament eight times — more than any other player. Her most recent win in Miami came in 2015.
Miami Open tournament director James Blake said not having Williams participate is a brilliant loss.
“We will be able to certainly overlook having Serena at this year’s tournament and I understand it was once a very difficult decision for her,” he said in a remark. “She has won the Miami Open more than any player in history, has a home here in South Florida, and is all the time a fan favorite. “
Fellow tennis superstars Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer are also sitting out of the Miami Open. Djokovic directly cited COVID restrictions as the reason he is not participating.
“I determined to use this precious time at home to stick with my circle of relatives,” Djokovic said in a remark. “With all restrictions, I want to find balance in my time on tour and at home.”
Nadal and Federer both said health issues are the reason they would possibly not be playing in the tournament.
The Miami Open is taking place at Tough Rock Stadium from March 24 to April 4.