Injured Venus Williams out of Madrid Open

Williams will miss the WTA Premier Mandatory event played on clay courts in the Spanish capital, starting Sunday.

The injury is a blow to the 35-year-old's preparations for the French Open, with the main draw of the year's second grand slam starting on May 22.

Williams, a seven-time major winner, had found some form with a title win in Kaohsiung earlier this year.

However, she made early exits at Indian Wells, Miami and Charleston.