Serena Williams Withdraws From WTA Finals, Gives Angelique Kerber Year-End No. 1 Ranking

As expected, Serena Williams officially withdrew from the year-end WTA Finals to be held in Singapore starting October 23. Citing a shoulder injury, it’s the second straight year Serena has skipped playing the event, or any events following the US Open for that matter.

“I was looking forward to competing in Singapore this year and playing against the best players in the world,” said Williams. “However, I have received disappointing news from my doctor that I must undergo a series of medical treatments for my shoulder and will be off the court for the next several weeks.

“I will miss coming to Singapore for the year-end Finals and playing in front of my fans but truly hope to be back soon.”

The 35-year-old Williams is a 5-time champion of the WTA Finals, winning the event the last four times she’s played.

Her withdrawal also clinches the No. 1 for German lefty Angelique Kerber.

Serena finishes the season with a 38-6 record and just two titles. She played in just eight events, of which only three were “WTA” and none since Rome.

“We’re as disappointed as the fans not to see Serena finish her season in Singapore,” WTA CEO Steve Simon said. “We wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing her back competing, fit and healthy. The race now intensifies this week as players fight for the remaining berth. Fans can expect an exciting WTA Finals this year, with reigning champion, Aga Radwanska, defending her title and our World No. 1, Angie Kerber, seeking to consolidate her outstanding season with a victory in Singapore.”

BREAKING: @SerenaWilliams has withdrawn from #WTAFinals. This is her message to the fans. Get well soon Serena! pic.twitter.com/E9GfwjERc0

— WTA (@WTA) October 17, 2016