Serena Williams became the latest high-profile player to pull out of the Miami Open on Sunday, saying she was withdrawing in order to concentrate on her recovery from recent oral surgery.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion joins Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic among the stars to have pulled out of the event, which was cancelled last year due to COVID-19.

“I am disappointed to withdraw from the Miami Open because of recent oral surgery,” Williams said in a statement quoted by US media.

“Miami is a special tournament for me because it’s my home and I am sad I won’t be able to see the incredible fans this year, but I look forward to coming back soon,” the former world number one said.

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“We will certainly miss having Serena at this year’s tournament, and I know it was a very difficult decision for her. She has won the Miami Open more than any player in history, has a home here in South Florida, and is always a fan favorite,” tournament director James Blake was quoted as saying by the Tennis World.

We hope she is back on the court soon and look forward to welcoming her back here next year,” he added.