Defending champion Simona Halep has withdrawn from Wimbledon with a calf injury.
The Romanian, who produced a stunning display to defeat Serena Williams in the final two years ago, tore her left calf muscle during a match in Rome in May and was forced to miss the French Open.
Halep had looked set to be fit for Wimbledon and travelled to London earlier this week but has reluctantly decided she is not able to compete.
The 29-year-old said on wimbledon.com: “It is with great sadness that I’m announcing my withdrawal from the championships as my calf injury has not fully recovered.”
Halep had been second seed for the women’s singles behind Australia’s Ashleigh Barty.
The world number three is the latest big name to withdraw and joins Naomi Osaka, Rafael Nadal and Dominic Thiem in missing the championships. She will be replaced as second seed by Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka.
“I can honestly say that I’m really down and upset about having to take this decision,” continued Halep.
“This period has been difficult, but to miss the last two majors has made it even more challenging mentally and physically. We will see what the future holds, but I’m hoping it will make me a stronger person and athlete.
“Thank you to everyone at Wimbledon for your understanding and support.”