Five-time champion Venus Williams has bowed out of the first round at Wimbledon in straight sets after a nasty incident that saw her scream out in agony against Elina Svitolina. The American tennis legend, 43, was unable to go on another fairytale run at the All England Club as she succumbed to the Ukrainian star, 6-4, 6-3 on the opening day on centre court.
Williams looked in impressive form early on as she jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the opening stanza before disaster struck. Moving forward to attempt a volley, Williams slipped on the grass after her right foot gave way and let out a scream in agony as she collapsed to the court.
The seven-time major winner was clutching at her right knee – which was already covered by a sleeve. Williams was able to keep playing but her movement appeared limited throughout the rest of the contest as Svitolina took full advantage.
Williams was twice treated by a trainer and had her right knee taped up during a medical timeout after the first set but despite her determination and the will of the centre court crowd, she was unable to overcome the 2019 Wimbledon semi-finalist. The American earned the praise of the tennis world though, despite many being rocked by her nasty first set mishap.
