Serena Williams’ French Open campaign in doubt after another withdrawal

Reuters: Former world number one Serena Williams has withdrawn from next week’s Italian Open, the organisers said yesterday, casting doubts over her participation in the French Open beginning later this month.

The 36-year-old, who has triumphed in Italy on four previous occasions, returned to action in March after the birth of her daughter last September, but is yet to regain full fitness.

The 23-times grand slam winner made her comeback at Indian Wells in March and has not played since her opening round defeat by Japan’s Naomi Osaka at the Miami Open.

“We are so sad to announce that Serena Williams, a four-time Champion in Rome, has withdrawn. Obviously, we can’t wait to see her again on Foro Italico’s red clay, perhaps in 2019?” the organisers tweeted.

The Italian Open is to be held from 14 to 20 May, a week before the French Open main draw kicks off on 27 May.