Venus Williams screamed out in pain as she injured her right knee early in her first round match at Wimbledon against Elina Svitolina.
The 43-year-old, five times a singles champion at the All England Club, was at the net at break point on her own serve when her right leg slipped attempting a backhand volley.
The American immediately clutched her right knee, already heavily bandaged, with a devastating scream shocking spectators on Centre Court as she fell to the ground.
The trainer was immediately called to the court but, after a medical timeout, Williams returned to action on court.
While she seemed to improve in her movement as the first set progressed, fellow wild card Svitolina took the opening set 6-4.
The trainer was again called to court at the end of the set and Williams took another medical timeout.
Unlike years gone by, the 43-year-old could not fight back this time and succumbed 6-4 6-3.
Williams is making her 24th main draw appearance at Wimbledon this year, a record in the open-era.
The incident brought back memories of Williams’ sister, Serena, injuring her ankle in a first round match at the Championships two years ago.
