{image-beijing+dark rings_08082008.jpg news.oneindia.in}Beijing, Aug 8: Former world number one Lindsay Davenport today withdrew from the women's singles competition at the Olympics following a knee injury that forced her to withdraw from this year's Wimbledon as well.

Davenport, the 1996 Atlanta Gold medallist, however, still hopes to play in the doubles event with her US teammate Liezel Huber. The tournament begins here on Sunday. The American returned to the women's tour last year after becoming a mother, and her comeback was largely motivated by a desire to play at the Olympics.

Hours before she withdrew her name, Davenport told a news conference that her right knee was still troubling her.

''Since the time it got hurt during the Wimbledon, I've been resting it only for the purpose of being here and being able to give my best,'' she said.

''It's thrilling to be back no matter what happens. It's the Olympics,'' she added.

Davenport has won 55 titles as a pro, including three Grand Slams- the US Open (1998), Wimbledon (1999) and Australian Open (2000) but hasn't played since winning her opening match at Wimbledon, where she withdrew before the second round.

UNI