Venus Williams Pulls From US Open

Former No. 1 Venus Williams' wrist problem again dealt the American a major blow Friday when the USTA announced the elder Williams sister would not participate in the 2006 US Open.

"I have many great memories from competing at the US Open and I regret that I will not be able to participate in 2006," Williams said. "I will miss the excitement of competing in front of the New York fans at one of the premier sporting events in the world. I look forward to returning in 2007."

Seeded No. 30 at the Open before withdrawing, the two-time US Open champ had not played a U.S. hardcourt event since reinjuring her wrist at Wimbledon. The 26-year-old also missed more than three months with a right elbow injury after the the Australian Open.

Venus' younger sister Serena, still suffering the effects of a chronic knee injury that has kept her off tour most of this year, needed a wildcard to get into the main draw.