Wimbledon: Serena Williams breaks down on court and is forced to quit

Serena Williams broke down on court and was forced to quit her doubles match with sister Venus after she was hit by a virus.

The 17-times Grand Slam champion held her head in her hands as she was examined by medical staff ahead of the match.

The second-round doubles match against Kristina Barrois and Stefanie Voegele was put off for over 10 minutes while she sat in her sideline chair and appeared to wipe her eyes as her blood pressure was checked. 

When it came for Serena to serve she could hardly bounce the ball.  She then served four consecutive double faults as the sisters lost the third game of the match, prompting the end. 

Serena went on to play as if she had never before picked up a racket.

Her following serves were all double-faulted – variously sent into the net and long – and at 0-40 to opponents Kristina Barrois and Stefanie Voegele umpire Kader Nouni came down off his chair to check on the 32-year-old’s fitness.

During the delay, one of the Williams’ other sisters, along with Serena’s agent and her hitting partner, left their seats in the stands.

Serena and Venus walked to the sideline holding hands, and Nouni announced to the crowd at No. 1 Court:  ‘Ladies and gentlemen, unfortunately, Miss Williams has to retire.’

Serena wiped away tears as she walked toward the court’s exit.