Venus Williams has just turned 44 and missed Wimbledon despite the legendary tennis star usually targeting the grass court season. She will not be playing either in a mooted exhibition match at the Atlanta Open.
The Sunday Showdown at the ATP tournament usually sees top American or Canadian WTA stars facing off in an exhibition match in lieu of a WTA tournament. This year, it was meant to be Venus Williams involved. But she aggravated her abdomen for the match that will take place on July 21.
She now requires further treatment and will be out for a while as a result. Sloane Stephens will now face Taylor Townsend instead. Venus Williams has been seen more in a celebrity type spotlight alongside her sister as of late with the duo appearing at the ESPY's in a highly publicised appearance. It also saw her and Serena roast NFL kicker Harrison Butker.
It is presumed that with no Olympic Games appearance that she will rest up and head towards the US hard court season if she does return. She was last seen at the Miami Open losing to Diana Shnaider with conjecture being more about why she is still receiving wildcards than her return to the sport.
“I regret to inform you that I will not be able to participate in this final installment of the Sunday Showdown during the Atlanta Open. During one of my practice sessions, I unfortunately aggravated my abdomen, which will require rest and treatment," said Venus Williams.
"I have enjoyed being able to play in Atlanta over the years and sincerely do hope to have the opportunity to return soon. I am nevertheless saddened that I will not be able to participate in this final edition of the Atlanta Open Sunday Showdown.”
NEW: Venus Williams will not be playing in the Atlanta Open next week. "During one of my practice sessions, I unfortunately aggravated my abdomen, which will require rest and treatment." - Venus Williams
Sloane Stephens and Taylor Townsend will go head-to-head in the Sunday Showdown delivered by @UPS on July 21. Townsend, who is scheduled to compete in the #Wimbledon doubles final on Saturday, takes the place of Grand Slam champ Venus Williams. 🔗 More: bit.ly/3WiYEnp
