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Venus Williams Withdraws From U.S. Open

Venus Williams suddenly withdrew from the U.S. Open yesterday after being diagnosed with Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain.

4 million Americans are reported to having the disease which is a condition where one’s white blood cells attack their moisture-producing glands. In rare cases, there can be joint pain and arthritis but it is not life-threatening or career-ending.

Venus had not played in two months and was excited to be back on the tennis court.

“I enjoyed playing my first match here, and wish I could continue but right now I am unable to,” Williams said in a statement released by the tournament. “I am thankful I finally have a diagnosis and am now focused on getting better and returning to the court soon.”