Serena withdraws from Miami Open due to injury

MIAMI, FL, USA – Serena Williams, eight-time Miami Open champion, was forced to retire from the tournament due to a left knee injury, the tournament announced today.

"I'm disappointed to leave the Miami Open because of a left knee injury," Serena said in a statement. "It was an amazing experience playing at Hard Rock Stadium this year and I would like to thank the Miami Open for organizing an amazing event.

"I hope to be back next year to participate in this unique tournament in front of the incredible Miami fans."

Read more: "I could not lose this game": Serena survives Peterson's fright in Miami

The former world No. 1 started the Miami Open with a tough three-run victory over Rebecca Peterson (6-3, 1-6, 6-1) to reach the third round. The win was Serena's 76th in Miami, one of the first numbers of the tournament.

It was a good performance to support his run at Indian Wells, which earned him a 7-5, 6-3 win over Grand Slam winner Victoria Azarenka, before being forced to withdraw from his third round match against Garbine Muguruza. due to a viral diseasetrailing 6-3, 1-0.