Setback for Venus Williams as she drops out of Brisbane Tournament

Tennis star, Venus Williams, has announced, on Wednesday, that she won't participate in the Brisbane International tennis tournament after facing a setback during training.

The former world number one and ister of grand-slam winner, Serena Williams, will now look forward to feature at the Adelaide International later this month ahead of the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year.

“Unfortunately I will not be starting my season in Brisbane due to an unexpected setback during my training,” the 39-year-old seven-time major winner said in a statement.

“I look forward to being in Australia in the new year and will see everyone in Adelaide.”

The tournament, featuring a strong field including world number one Ashleigh Barty and Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka, gets underway on January 6.

Organisers will announce a replacement for Williams on Thursday.