Serena Williams’ run at Wimbledon ended shorter than anyone would’ve predicted. The tennis legend on Tuesday bowed out in the first round because of a leg injury.

The injury forced Williams to prematurely end her match against Aliaksandra Sasnovich. Shortly after Williams fell to the ground and screamed in pain, she shook hands with Sasnovich and waved to the crowd while in tears, ending her brief tournament run.

It’s the second time in her career that Williams couldn’t finish a match at a major tournament.

"Of course I'm so sad for Serena, she's a great champion," Sasnovich said, via ESPN. "It happens sometimes in tennis, but all the best for her and her recovery."

The No. 6 seed in the draw, Williams entered Wimbledon tied with Ashleigh Barty for the best odds to win the title.

Williams has won 23 career Grand Slams, trailing Margaret Court by just one title for the all-time record. The 39-year-old has won seven Wimbledon championships, last doing so at the All England Club in 2016.

Williams was eliminated in the Round of 16 at the 2021 French Open. At the Australian Open, she lost in the semifinals to Naomi Osaka.

Serena Williams is still chasing a record-equalling 24th major
Serena Williams is still chasing a record-equalling 24th major AFP / Christophe ARCHAMBAULT
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