Tennis: Serena Williams withdraws from the Australian Open 2018

Serena Williams, of the U.S., reacts in an exhibition match against Jelena Ostapenko, of Latvia, during the final day of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship. Photo / AP.

Defending champion Serena Williams has withdrawn from the 2018 Australian Open.

"After competing in Abu Dhabi I realized that although I am super close, I'm not where I personally want to be," Williams said.

"My coach and team always said 'only go to tournaments when you are prepared to go all the way'. I can compete – but I don't want to just compete, I want to do far better than that and to do so, I will need a little more time.

Serena Williams from the U.S. reacts in an exhibition match against Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia during the final day of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi. Photo /AP.

"With that being said, and even though I am disappointed about it, I've decided not to compete in the Australian Open this year.

"The memory of last year's Open is one that I will carry with me, and Olympia and I look forward to coming back again.

"I appreciate the support and understanding of my fans and everyone at the Australian Open."