'Hard to watch': Venus Williams holds back tears after 'horrendous' incident
Venus Williams was knocked out of the Australian Open in heartbreaking scenes after she succumbed to two injuries during what could be her final match at Melbourne Park.
The 40-year-old tennis great lost 6-1, 6-0 to Sara Errani, who was in good form, but the American was in pain after taking the court with her leg taped.
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But after trailing in the first set, Williams appeared to roll her ankle and took back-to-back medical time outs.
Williams was in severe physical discomfort during the break and looked to be holding back tears as medical officials worked on her ankle.
But the 40-year-old refused to retire and played through the pain.
However, after fronting the second set, she was blasted off court and was helpless against the Italian’s dominant performance.
Fans were quick to commend Williams’ courage to play on after what looked like a ‘horrendous’ ankle roll.
Venus looks absolutely disconsolate, more from the disappointment than the physical pain. Seems like her already-taped left knee is also possibly issue. #AusOpen
— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) February 10, 2021
Venus is holding back tears. This is really hard to watch.
— The Tennis Podcast (@TennisPodcast) February 10, 2021
Goodness that ankle twist seemed horrendous for Venus Williams. How did she finish that match! https://t.co/HJ06ntUXbe
— Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) February 10, 2021
Looks like Venus landed on the side of her ankle something fierce. I really hope this doesn't end her tournament, after all the training and then the isolating to be able to play safely in the first Grand Slam of the year.
Just... ugh. #AusOpen— 😷☃️ Derrick Clifton (@DerrickClifton) February 10, 2021
A true icon! Honestly, Venus is truly amazing. Her never say die attitude, her being resolute at all times? It's goals! One has a lot to learn from her. #VenusWilliams #ausopen pic.twitter.com/IaMpsTk8Be
— Buhle Mbonambi (@Buhlebonga) February 10, 2021
Errani sorry for Venus Williams
Errani had some kind words for Williams following her victory.
"I was so sorry for her but after (the injury break) she was playing good," Errani said.
"So it was not easy to play even with someone who is injured - she was hitting really strong then really slow.
"I'm really sorry, I hope she will feel great.
"She's a really good champion - of course it's an honour for me to play her in such a good stadium."
with AAP
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