Serena Williams withdraws from BNP Paribas Open due to knee injury

According to officials with the BNP Paribas Open, Serena Williams has withdrawn from the 2017 tournament due to a left knee injury.

Check out updates made to the Tennis Gardens and a preview of events for the week.

The breaking news began surfacing Tuesday afternoon amidst the second day of qualifiers. The first round of the tournament takes place on Wednesday.

Serena said, “Sadly, I have to withdraw from the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells and the Miami Open. I have not been able to train due to my knees and am disappointed I cannot be there. I will keep moving forward and continue to be positive. i look forward to being back as soon as I can.”

According to Tennis.com’s report, with Williams out of the field, world No. 2 Angelique Kerber will retake the top ranking when the Premier tournament concludes on March 19.

KESQ News Channel 3 and CBS Local 2 will have in-depth coverage of the BNP Paribas Open throughout the week.

Watch coverage of Day 1 right here: