Warren Toda/EPA, via Shutterstock
MASON, Ohio — Serena Williams withdrew shortly before her first-round match at the Cincinnati Masters was set to begin on Tuesday evening, citing the back problems that had forced her to abandon the Rogers Cup final in Toronto last weekend after just four games.
“I came to Mason on Sunday and have tried everything to be ready to play tonight, and was still hopeful after my practice this morning,” Williams said in a statement. “But unfortunately my back is still not right, and I know I should not take to the court.