Former world No.1 Venus Williams has confirmed that she won’t be making an appearance at the ASB Classic in Auckland.
The 37-year-old has been a fixture at the event at the past four years, claiming the title with a win over Caroline Wozniacki in 2015.
However a much busier schedule after a resurgent year has meant the American will look to take an extra week's break before the Australian Open, using the Sydney International as her warm-up instead.
"Auckland is a great event but I was looking at options to extend my off-season," Williams told the Daily Telegraph.
The seven-time grand slam winner has rediscovered some vintage form through the 2017 season, reaching finals at both Wimbledon and Melbourne.
"I have been playing some really great tennis this year and I feel I'm in a strong position, both physically and mentally, in the lead up to Sydney."
The Sydney International will be contested from January 7-13.
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