Tearful Williams slips out of Wimbledon
A slippery Centre Court surface saw a “heartbroken” Serena Williams’ latest title challenge at Wimbledon end in sad fashion after she had to retire from the tournament in the first round.
The seven-time singles winner at the All England Club slipped in the fifth game against Aliaksandra Sasnovich and needed a medical timeout.
Even though the American returned after a 10-minute delay, the pain in her right leg appeared too severe and she had to quit while in tears.
A statement from Williams read: “I was heartbroken to have to withdraw after injuring my right leg. My love and gratitude are with the fans and the team who make being on Centre Court so meaningful.
“Feeling the extraordinary warmth and support of the crowd when I walked on – and off – the court meant the world to me.”
It saw her pursuit of a record-equalling 24th grand slam continue and sparked a debate about the impact of the roof being closed on Centre Court. Opponent Sasnovich said: “It is very sad for me, honestly, when your opponent feels bad. She is a great champion and it is a sad story. It was very slippery. I fell as well.”
Williams sustained herlosing balance on two occasions during a point in the fifth game.
The39-year-oldhadmadea positive start in SW19, breaking the Belarusian early on before the slip contributed towards being broken herself to leavethematchat3-3whenshe required a trainer to come on.
Upon returning to Centre Court, saw a couple of big but once Williams tried to serve, the pain became too much and it was a second retirement in quick succession on Wimbledon’s main stage.