Petra Kvitova has been forced to withdraw from the French Open after suffering a freak injury during her post-match press requirements.
Kvitova, the two-time Grand Slam champion from the Czech Republic, confirmed the news on social media on Tuesday following a fall on Sunday.
She had survived a match point in a tense first-round win over Belgium’s Greet Minnen but has now withdrawn from her round two tie with Russia’s Elena Vesnina.
‘It is with great disappointment that I announce my withdrawal from Roland Garros,’ Kvitova said in a statement.
‘During my post-match press requirements on Sunday I fell and hurt my ankle.
‘Unfortunately, after an MRI and much discussion with my team, I have made the tough decision that it would be unwise to play on it.
‘It’s incredibly bad luck, but I will stay strong and do my best to recover in time for the grass-court season.’
The news is scarcely believable given the backdrop of this tournament.
Press conferences have come under scrutiny after Naomi Osaka withdrew from the event following a row over her media blackout.
The bottom of half of the draw is now really opening up. Only four top-16 seeds are left in the second round.
Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka. Aryna Sabalenka and Belinda Bencic are the last women top-16 seeds standing, following early exits for Kiki Bertens and Bianca Andreescu to accompany Osaka and Kvitova’s withdrawals.
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