File image of Venus Williams
Former world No 1 Venus Williams on Wednesday pulled out of the season-opening Brisbane International after suffering an "unexpected setback" in training.
According to a BBC report, Venus, 39, hopes to play in Adelaide before the Australian Open on January 20.
A replacement for the world number 52 will be announced on Thursday, the report said.
The tournament begins on January 6 with World No 1 Ashleigh Barty and Australian Open winner Naomi Osaka among the strong contenders.
