Serena Williams pulls out of Italian Open with elbow injury

Image source, AFP

Image caption, Serena Williams was the defending champion at the Italian Open

World number one Serena Williams has pulled out of the Italian Open because of an elbow injury.

The 33-year-old withdrew shortly before she was due to face fellow American Christina McHale in round three.

But the 19-time Grand Slam champion does not think the injury - which is affecting her serve - will be an issue at the French Open, which begins on Sunday, 24 May.

Williams was the defending champion in Rome.

Britain's world number three Andy Murray has pulled out of the men's event, citing fatigue.