The two-time champion, Venus, was the latest to confirm that she won’t be playing due to a leg injury.

On Wednesday her younger sister and six-time champion, Serena, pulled out because of an ongoing hamstring injury.

Venus confirmed the news of her withdrawal via a Twitter entry.

“Not the best news from Serena and I today.

“I, too, am unable to play the US Open. It's super, super, super disappointing, having some issues with my leg all this summer and just couldn't work through it."

A third American, Sofia Kenin, also withdrew from the hardcourt slam yesterday.

The 22-year-old Kenin, who is ranked 5th in the world confirmed that she tested positive for Covid-19 and hasn’t fully recovered from the virus.

“I am writing with disappointing news.

“Recently, I tested positive for Covid-19. Fortunately, I am vaccinated and thus my symptoms have been fairly mild. However, I have continued to test positive and thus will not be able to compete at the US Open next week.

“I plan to spend the next several weeks getting healthy and preparing to play well this fall. Thank you all for supporting me. I want to wish all the players the best of luck in New York.”

The main draw of the 2021 US Open starts on Monday.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport