{blackbabes} Venus Williams hopeful for return before US Open

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Don't count out Venus Williams for a U.S. Open appearance.

That is, if her recovery from a lower back injury that forced the former world No. 1 to skip Wimbledon allows her to play in a tune-up event before the next grand slam.

The 33-year-old missed the grass-court major after 16 consecutive appearances. Williams last played in May when she lost in the first round of the French Open.

The injury also prevented Williams from rejoining the Washington Kastles, the World Team Tennis franchise she played for last season. Williams spoke with media before the two-time defending champion's season opener, attended by first lady Michelle Obama and Billie Jean King.