Defending women’s singles champion Simona Halep has pulled out of the Wimbledon 2021 due to a calf injury.
Halep was last seen in action during the WTA clay court event in Rome in May, where she retired during the second-round match against Germany’s Angelique Kerber
“It is with great sadness that I’m announcing my withdrawal from The Championships as my calf injury has not fully recovered,” the 29-year-old said in a statement.
“I gave it everything I had in order to be ready to play Wimbledon and after having such special memories from two years ago, I was excited and honoured to step back on these beautiful courts as defending champion,” she added.
“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 majors has made it even more challenging mentally and physically,” Halep added.
“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.”