October 1, 2015 | By Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
Photo credit: Sidney Beal III @ Clique Photography
Serena Williams announced on Thursday that she will not be playing again in 2015, meaning that she will be out of the China Open in Beijing and the WTA Finals in Singapore.
Serena cited the need to focus on her physical health, as well as take a step back mentally and emotionally.
“It’s no secret I’ve played injured most of the year—whether it was my elbow, my knee, or, in the final moments after a certain match in Flushing, my heart,” said Serena. “I want to compete as well as I can, as long as I can. So I’m taking a proactive step and withdrawing from tournaments in Beijing and Singapore to properly address my health and take time to heal.”
Serena last played at the U.S. Open, when she was stunned by Roberta Vinci in the semifinals in her attempt to complete the Calendar Grand Slam and tie Steffi Graf’s Open Era record of 22 Grand Slam titles.
“Serena’s health has to be her number one priority,” said Micky Lawler, WTA president. “The risk of injury is a reality in the world of elite athletic performance. We will miss seeing Serena on court in both Beijing and Singapore and wish her a speedy recovery.”
