Millions of hearts sank as they watched Serena Williams on her knees at the Centre Court after she broke down in tears after injuring herself. A few moments later, the tennis queen called off her Wimbledon Championships 2021 campaign, silencing the crowd. However, once reality kicked in, the audience gave her roaring applause as she left the court, leaving the score at 3-3 in the first set.

Inarguably, this must be one of the hardest things to go through in sport. Serena blasted off the first three games, and fans worldwide did not see this coming. Now, the record seven-time Wimbledon champion has written a heartfelt message to the fans, expressing her turmoil.

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“The court meant the world to me”: Serena Williams after retiring from Wimbledon R1

The 39-year-old came into the tournament with eyes on a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title. However, Serena and tennis fans might have to wait longer to see that now. It is all the more difficult to accept a loss due to an injury.?

In her Instagram post, Serena expressed her pain and feelings for the Centre Court. It is the court that has given her more success than any other Grand Slam tournament.

“I was heartbroken to have to withdraw today after injuring my right leg,” Serena wrote. “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 today when I walked on – and off – the court meant the world to me.”

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Until now, there is no information on the extent of her injury. But from the looks of how she left the court, it seemed painful.

Furthermore, Serena would not be playing at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. Thus, she might use this time to recover speedily.

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What’s next for Serena?

Notably, it was the first time in her 20 Wimbledon appearances that Serena had to go out in the first round. Also, it brings up a stinging question: will Serena return to the Championships next year?

There is no doubt that the 23-time Grand Slam champion will return stronger than ever. Now, she will put all her energy into winning the most-awaited #24 Slam on home turf at the US Open.

Above all, fans never want Serena to stop playing and she does not want to either. Hopefully, she will be back on the court in no time.?

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