Mason, Ohio (AHN) - A hand injury has forced Serena Williams to withdraw from next week's Western And Southern Financial Group Women's Open.

"When we saw Serena with a splint on her hand while watching her sister play in the Wimbledon final, we knew there was a chance she wouldn't be able to play here," tournament director Bruce Flory said. "She said she really enjoyed herself here last year, appreciated the great crowd support she received and hopes to play here again next year."

The world's No. 7 ranked Williams was a semifinalist at the Open in 2006. Williams, whose eight career titles are the most among active women players, suffered the hand injury at Wimbledon last week. She was knocked out by No. 1 Justine Henin in the quarterfinals at the All England Club.

"Obviously, from a tournament point of view, we loved having her because she draws and she brings such energy," Flory said. "Tennis fans are disappointed obviously too. There's still some great players here, but she brings energy that others don't."

It was also announced Monday that 11th-ranked Marion Bartoli, who lost in last week's Wimbledon finale to Williams' sister, Venus, will not participate in the Open because of a wrist injury.

With Williams and Bartoli sidelined, Patty Schnyder, Anna Chakvetadze, Sania Mirza, Maria Kirilenko and Akiko Morigami are expected to headline the tournament field.