Venus Williams revealed today that she’s battling the autoimmune disease Sjogrens Syndrome. Heading into the second round at the US Open after a straight set win on Monday, Venus was forced to retire due to illness on Tuesday. Williams released a statement following the match,
“I’m really disappointed to have to withdraw from this year’s U.S. Open. I have been recently diagnosed with Sjögren’s Syndrome, an autoimmune disease which is an ongoing medical condition that affects my energy level and causes fatigue and joint pain.
She continued, “I enjoyed playing my first match here and wish I could continue but right now I am unable to. I am thankful I finally have a diagnosis and am now focused on getting better and returning to the court soon.”
Many are now wondering just what is Sjogren’s Syndrome. According to the foundation’s website, it’s “a chronic autoimmune disease in which a person’s white blood cells attack the moisture-producing glands. Today, as many as 4 million Americans are living with this disease.”
Venus’ career undoubtedly comes into question; where will she go from here? The question remains unanswered for now…
Good luck to Venus Williams
