Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams withdrew from the Australian Open as she struggles to return from the autoimmune disease Sjogren's syndrome. 

In a posting on her website, the US star said that she
has been making progress and plans to return to WTA Tour play in February, when events begin in the United States.

"I regret to announce that I am withdrawing from the 2012 Australian Open," Williams said on her website. "After several months of training and treatment, I am making steady progress to top competitive form."