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Serena Williams pulls out of Rome Masters

Serena Williams has withdrawn from the Rome Masters with an injury to her lower back.

The former world number one had been due to take on China’s Li Na at the semi-final stage this morning.

However, the 13-time Grand Slam winner has decided to rest the complaint with the French Open just over a week away.

“I would have hoped to have played until the end of that match but it would have depended on my back,” said Williams.

“I’ve been playing a lot and my body is getting used to a lot of matches again. My form is good heading to Paris. I want to be ready for the next couple of months.”

Na will now face either Maria Sharapova or Angelique Kerber in tomorrow’s final.

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