Injured Serena withdraws, Sharapova in last 8

World
Europe

In a much-anticipated match that was billed as one of the most eye-ball grabbing contests in the ongoing French Open turned out to be no-show on Monday at Roland Garros.

Former world number one Serena Williams pulled out her much-talked about fourth round match against Maria Sharapova under dramatic circumstances.

As all eyes were on the lop-sided rivalry between two of the most prolific and well-known women sportspersons, an injured chest muscle forced Williams to withdraw just before the start at Court Philippe Chatrier.

With the American trying to play through the pain and was barely able to serve, she had to eventually call off her Grand Slam comeback.

Serena Williams gives a press conference as she announces her withdrawal from the French Open through injury, at Rolland Garros. /VCG Photo

The pull out came less than an hour before she was supposed to take on her Russian rival, who failed to win a single match against the former since her two memorable victory over Williams in 2004.

Interestingly, barring those two wins, including the 2004 Wimbledon final, Sharapova was never quite capable of winning any more against the powerful American in the 21 matches they played against each other over the years.

However, Monday’s match was being viewed as one of the marquee battles as both the tennis players are part of their respective comeback process in this year’s French Open.

Sharapova, who returned after serving a 15-month ban for using meldonium and was denied a wild card at the French Open last year, is seeking redemption. While Williams, who gave birth to her daughter last September, has been on the path of post-maternity recovery and has already created ripples with her black catsuit and reminiscences of her sublime form.

Garbine Muguruza of Spain to face Sharapova in last 8. /VCG Photo

After announcing her decision to withdraw from the tournament, a visibly dejected Williams stated at the press conference, "the fact that I physically can't serve at all is a good indication that maybe I should just go back to the drawing board and stay positive."

"But I know that these are the sacrifices you have to make to live out your dream. And I have made every sacrifice that I could. So it's extremely disappointing."

Meanwhile, Sharapova, who has progressed to the last 8 due to her rival’s pull out and will take on 2016 French Open champion Garbine Muguruza of Spain on Wednesday, wished Williams "a speedy recovery" in a statement released by the tournament officials at Roland Garros.