Venus Williams Back in the WTA Rogers Cup

TORONTO - Venus Williams withdrew from the WTA Tour Rogers Cup tournament that will start Monday because of illness, organizers said.

Williams said he felt unwell and consulted a doctor on Sunday. He was diagnosed as having viral illness and said he was "very disappointed" not to play in Toronto.

Qualifier Shuai Zhang of China advanced to replace Williams' first round against former world number one Ana Ivanovic of Serbia, on Tuesday. Lourdes Dominguez Lino obtain additional places in those games.

The players remaining strong at Rogers Cup, including sister Venus, Serena, and world number one Caroline Wozniacki, ranked number two and number five Kim Clijsters Maria Sharapova.

Serena Williams, who missed 11 months due to a series of health problems, returned to action in June and won a WTA title at Stanford in late July.

Venus Williams, ranked 34 of the world, experienced a disappointing season due to hip and abdominal injury. "I am very excited to play in Toronto," said Venus Williams in a statement. "I came here ready to go and already practicing. I do not feel well and had to go to the doctor today.

"I was diagnosed with pain due to a virus and unfortunately I could not play. I'm very disappointed. I apologize to the fans and the tournament."

Toronto tournament is loaded talented players are warming towards the Grand Slam last year, the U.S. Open which starts on August 29 in New York.