Serena Williams has pulled out of the upcoming Wuhan Open and China Open due to shoulder problems.
The 34-year-old, who lost her world number one status after a semi-final exit at the US Open, has been struggling with the issue since the summer.
After missing tournaments in Montreal and Cincinnati, Williams struggled at the Rio Olympics and in her home Grand Slam at Flushing Meadows.
Recently, the American tennis star claimed that she will only play again when she is 100% fit, and now her aim is to be ready for the season-ending WTA Finals next month.
"I am disappointed that I will not be able to compete at the Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open or the China Open due to continuing issues with my right shoulder," Williams told wtatennis.com.
"I have been practising and playing but my shoulder is still not fit for tournament play. I am focused on getting ready to compete at the WTA Finals in Singapore."
Williams has 22 Grand Slam titles to her name.
Danielle Joynson
