Tennis: Venus Williams pulls out of Wimbledon

LONDON - American Venus Williams has pulled out of this year's Wimbledon because of a back injury, the five-time singles champion said on Tuesday (Wednesday, PHL time).

The 33-year-old has not played since pulling out of the doubles at this year's French Open.

"I will not be able to participate in Wimbledon," Williams wrote on her Facebook page. "I am extremely disappointed as I have always loved The Championships."

Williams won her last Wimbledon title in 2008. Her sister Serena is the defending champion in this year's tournament which starts on Monday. - Reuters