Serena Williams pulled out of the U.S. Open on Friday, saying she still is recovering from surgery to repair cuts on her right foot.
The top-ranked Williams has won three titles at Flushing Meadows, part of her 13 Grand Slam singles championships, most among active women. Last year, she lost in the U.S. Open semifinals after a tirade at a line judge over a foot-fault call, an outburst that drew a record fine.
In a statement released by her publicist, Williams called missing the tournament "one of the most devastating moments of my career."
In a freak accident, the 28-year-old American reportedly was hurt by a broken glass at a restaurant while she was in Munich, shortly after winning her fourth Wimbledon singles title July 3. Williams had surgery July 15.
It looks like Caroline Wozniacki will be the women's top seed with Serena out of action.
The U.S. Open is Aug. 30-Sept. 12.