Three days into the U.S. Open, Venus Williams has withdrawn from the tournament, saying she suffers from pain and fatigue caused by an autoimmune disorder called Sjogren's Syndrome.
The syndrome destroys the glands that produce tears and saliva and can affect the kidneys, lungs and blood vessels. The body mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. Complications -- although rare -- can include kidney failure, lymphoma and pulmonary infection.
Some 4 million Americans are afflicted with the condition, and nine of 10 are women.
"I'm speechless," said 18-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert. "I thought she was looking really good. I'm disappointed for Venus Williams, and I'm disappointed for the U.S. Open. Venus Williams would have had to be 100 percent healthy to win this match."
The key word is healthy. Venus Williams has been anything but most of the year. Venus Williams has struggled with hip and knee injuries plus a lingering viral illness whose aftereffects may well have caused her to pull out. After beating Vesna Dolonts 6-4, 6-3 in the opening round, Venus Williams was vague, even evasive in describing her illness and the specifics of her preparation for the U.S. Open. Now we know why.
"I enjoyed playing my first match here, and wish I could continue but right now I am unable to," Venus' statement concluded. "I am thankful I finally have a diagnosis and am now focused on getting better and returning to the court soon."
Venus Williams always has been a battler, and there has always been a sense that she enjoys the essence of the sport -- not necessarily all its trappings and rewards
Monday, October 10, 2011
Venus Williams
10/10/2011
News Staff
