sportsjabber.net

Despite Venus Williams withdrawal from the Auckland tournament, both Williams sisters will be playing in Melbourne’s Australian Open. Aussie Open tournament director Craig Tiley said he has contacted both Venus and Serena to check up on their schedule for the rest of their Down Under events.

Venus withdrew from Auckland due to heath reasons. The seven-time Grand Slam champion has played in numerous exhibition tournament during the past month, but has had a difficult time this year staying in tournaments. Venus even withdrew from the U.S. Open due to health reasons. The older Williams sister has been undergoing treatment for Sjörgen’s syndrome, an autoimmmune disease.

http://www.sbnation.com/tennis/2011/12/23/2658422/venus-serena-williams-australian-open-2012