Tennis star, Venus Williams, has announced, on Wednesday, that she won't participate in the Brisbane International tennis tournament after facing a setback during training.

The former world number one and ister of grand-slam winner, Serena Williams, will now look forward to feature at the Adelaide International later this month ahead of the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year.

“Unfortunately I will not be starting my season in Brisbane due to an unexpected setback during my training,” the 39-year-old seven-time major winner said in a statement.

“I look forward to being in Australia in the new year and will see everyone in Adelaide.”

The tournament, featuring a strong field including world number one Ashleigh Barty and Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka, gets underway on January 6.

Organisers will announce a replacement for Williams on Thursday.