Wimbledon champion breaks down in tears
Barbora Krejcikova’s Wimbledon title defense ended in heartbreak Saturday as the Czech star broke down in tears during her third-round clash with Emma Navarro.
The 29-year-old Krejcikova, last year’s surprise champion, started strong by taking the first set 6-2. But soon began struggling with a possible thigh injury. As the match wore on, her movement was visibly hampered, prompting a visit from both the doctor and physio. Even Martina Navratilova, watching courtside, noted something seemed seriously off:
“They are taking her blood pressure. Something is not right for Barbora Krejcikova,” Navratilova said on BBC Two.
Emotional Collapse and Exit
In the decisive set, Krejcikova was seen crying at the back of the court, leaning against the wall for support as she tried to gather herself before serving. While she managed to hold serve, Navarro closed out the match moments later, winning 2-6, 6-3, 6-4.
As she left Court One, tears returned as the Wimbledon crowd gave the defending champion a heartfelt send-off. Krejcikova had been dealing with injury concerns even before the tournament, which likely played a role in her performance.
Navarro: “It Was Really Tough”
Navarro, 24, admitted the match was an emotional and physical battle for both players.
“It’s not easy. Part of you is telling yourself to just get the ball back in play, but she’s an amazing player, injuries or no injuries,” she said.
Despite a shaky start, the American raised her level in the second and third sets and now moves on to face 18-year-old Mirra Andreeva for a place in the quarter-finals.
For Krejcikova, the loss marks a tough end to her run. Still, her emotional display highlighted the intensity and vulnerability that come with being a Grand Slam champion on the sport’s grandest stage.
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