Venus hopeful about Peer

Agence France-Presse

Williams, a leading member of the WTA players council, will travel to Indian Wells next month to take part in a meeting which will discuss the biggest controversy to hit the tour for years. Venus was asked if she was surprised that so many players had given support to Peer but had not decided to back their words with actions and boycott the tournament.

"No it's not like that at all," she replied. "There are so many other people involved. Sponsors are important to us. Whatever we do, we need to do as a team - players, sponsors, tour and whoever - and not all break off in one direction."

"She's previously played in the Middle East, so it was my understanding she would have the opportunity to play here also," she added.