Martina Hingis withdrew from the Family Circle Cup on Saturday because of a hip injury and is the latest star to pull out of the tournament held for over 30 years at Hilton Head, South Carolina. Already out: Svetlana Kuznetsova, ranked No. 5, withdrew Friday because of a wrist injury. Earlier, top-ranked Justine Henin withdrew, followed by No. 2 Maria Sharapova and No. 3 Amelie Mauresmo.
Hingis, ranked No. 6, said she hurt her left hip last week: "I have been working as hard as possible to be in competitive shape for the tournament but unfortunately have not recovered enough,"she said in a statement.
So this should be a nightmare for organizers, rght?
Notsomuch. The rejuventated Serena Williams, winner of the 2007 Australian Open and Sony Ericcson Open, is in the draw. Although her ranking doesn't reflect it yet, Serena is the best player in the world so far this year. Another major plus is Venus Williams who is starting to play well again. Unfortunately, the sisters are on the same side of the draw and could meet in the quarterfinals.
Serena is the third seed while Venus, who won the event three years ago, is unseeded this year.