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Serena's statement on injury, withdrawal
By Randy Walker // U.S. Tennis Assn. // August 11, 2004
Serena Williams has withdrawn from the U.S. Olympic Tennis Team due to an injured left knee. The knee injury, suffered on July 30 during the quarterfinals in San Diego, resulted in her withdrawal from the Acura Classic and the Rogers Cup last week in Montreal. Her knee has been examined over the past three weeks by a team of specialists and following a previously scheduled appointment yesterday with noted New York specialist David Altchek, M.D., Williams withdrew from the U.S. team. Following the withdrawal, U.S. Olympic Women’s Tennis Coach Zina Garrison and Serena Williams have issued the following statements:
Serena Williams:
“I am sad and disappointed, not only because I am unable to travel to Greece and participate in the Olympics, but also because I gave my word that I would play. I feel that I am letting down my sister -- Venus -- Zina, and the other members of the U.S. team by not participating. I have been advised that by playing, I could cause long-term damage to my knee. I want to thank my fans, the USTA, the United States Olympic Committee, and the American people for your support. I will be cheering on our team, wishing I were there. I will be starting extensive rehabilitation immediately, and look forward to coming back stronger than ever very soon.”
U.S. Olympic Women’s Team Coach Zina Garrison:
“Serena has been battling injuries all year and we – as a team – are disappointed that she will not be able to join us to compete in Athens. We understand that Serena has been undergoing extensive physical therapy since San Diego and that her withdrawal has been based at the advice of her doctors. We certainly respect her decision and wish Serena a healthy recovery.”
Chanda Rubin will replace Serena Williams in the U.S. doubles lineup, pairing with Venus Williams.
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