Defending Champion Simona Halep Withdraws From Wimbledon
Just before the draw was announced, Simona Halep withdrew from Wimbledon due to continued issues with her left calf. While she was able to practice on the Wimbledon courts, she was not at 100%.
“It is with great sadness that I’m announcing my withdrawal from The Championships as my calf injury has not fully recovered,” Halep posted on Facebook.
“I gave it everything I had in order to be ready to play Wimbledon and after having such special memories from 2 years ago, I was excited and honored to step back on these beautiful courts as defending champion. Unfortunately, my body didn’t cooperate and I’ll have to save that feeling for next year.
“I can honestly say that I’m really down and upset about having to take this decision. This period has been difficult but to miss the last two Grand Slams has made it even more challenging mentally and physically. We will see what the future holds but I’m hoping it will make me a stronger person and athlete.
“Thank you to everyone at Wimbledon for your understanding and support.”
Halep was to open her 2019 title defense Centre Court Tuesday at 1:30pm. She is the third player to miss her title defense in the last 10 years at Wimbledon after Marion Bartoli in 2015 and Serena Williams in 2017.
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