Sania Mirza to miss Australian Open due to knee injury

What's the story?

Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza will not feature in the first Grand Slam of the upcoming season, the Australian Open, as she is still recovering from a knee injury.

She confirmed the news on Saturday at an event in Kolkata, where she was quoted as saying, "Basically I have something that's called a jumper's knee. So it's extremely painful, like I am okay to walk but it's painful to change directions and play."

When asked about her possible return, she said, "I can't tell you a definitive when but it won't be before the next couple of months atleast. I will be missing the Australian Open for sure."

In case you didn't know

Mirza is one of the biggest names in the sport of tennis in India and has been among the top players in the world in doubles in recent years.

A six-time Grand Slam champion, Mirza has won the Australian Open, US Open and Wimbledon crowns in women's doubles while she has clinched one mixed doubles title each at the Australian, French and US Opens.

The heart of the matter

Mirza stated that she has been struggling due to injury for a couple of months now and is contemplating undergoing a surgery to resolve the problem or take a few injections.

She also said that it will be while till she will step on to a court next but is hoping to make it time for the upcoming Commonwealth and Asian Games.

What's next?

The Australian Open kicks off in Melbourne on January 15 next year and will finish on January 28.

Author's take

It is certainly disappointing to see Mirza miss out on taking part in the first Grand Slam of the year. Here's hoping she recovers as soon as possible and makes a swift comeback to action!