23-time grand slam champion Serena Williams has been forced to retire from her first WTA Final since 2016 at the Rogers Cup.
The former world No.1 took to the court in Toronto to take on Bianca Andreescu in what was the first ever meeting between the two. Williams appeared tentative during the early stages as she went down a break early on before halting the match. Trailing 1-3, she returned to her seat and requested a medical time out before bursting into tears. Prompting Bianca Andreescu to come over and console her.
“My back started to spasm last night.” Williams told her opponent during their exchange.
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In what was her 96th WTA final, it is only the second time Williams hasn’t been able to complete a match. The first occurred 19 years ago when she retired in the third set against Martina Hingis at the same tournament. This week was Williams’ best run at a tournament outside of the grand slams since she won the Italian Open back in 2016.
“Thank you guys. I’m sorry I couldn’t do it today, but I tried. I just couldn’t do it.” The tearful 37-year-old said during the trophy presentation.
“Bianca, You’re a great sportswoman and thanks to my team. It’s been a tough year, but we’ll l keep going.” She added.
The setback is the latest physical issue to hamper Williams. Earlier this year she was also troubled by problems with her knee and ankles. She has now lost in all of the five finals she has played in since becoming a mother. Four of those took place at a grand slam.
As a result of her opponents misfortunes, Andreescu has become the first Canadian – man or woman – to win the Rogers Cup since 1969. The tournament is only the second she has been able to play since March due to a shoulder injury.
“I know how it is to pull out of tournaments and be injured. It is not easy.” Said the new champion.
“This wasn’t the way I expected to win and for you (Williams) to go off the court. But you’re truly a champion. I’ve watched you play so many times.”
Andreescu will rise to a new ranking high of 14th on Monday. Breaking into the world’s top 20 for the first time. This time last year the 19-year-old was ranked outside the top 200. Earlier in the tournament, she knocked out seeded players Kiki Bertens and Karolina Pliskova. Then in the semi-finals on Saturday she dismissed Sofia Kenin in straight sets.
“This has been a dream come true. This week has really not been easy. I’ve had many, many tough matches.” Andreescu reflected.
“What I have been through the last two months have not been easy, but I kept telling myself never give up. I try to look at that as not as a setback, but more of a challenge and try to embrace that.”
