Azarenka out of National Bank Open Toronto after visa not approved: "It's very sad to miss one of my favourite tournaments"

Victoria Azarenka has withdrawn from next week's National Bank Open, she has announced but not due to injury with the former World No.1 and multiple Grand Slam champion not having her visa approved to head to Canada.

Azarenka was due to begin her campaign tomorrow against Belinda Bencic with a potential second round meeting mooted with Serena Williams who will face a qualifier in her opening round.

This after the Belarusian who resides in the States started the US Open Series well and reached the Quarter-Finals of Citi Open Washington. No reason was given by Azarenka for her visa not to be approved as of time of writing.

"I wanted to inform you that I unfortunately have to withdraw from the tournament in Toronto due to my visa not being approved. It is truly disappointing. It's very sad to miss one of my favourite tournaments.

"I love to play in Canada with great fans and a place where I made many friends over the years. Good luck to everyone at the event! See you in Cincinnati."