Victoria Mboko's doubles partnership with Serena Williams faces uncertainty after the Canadian was forced to retire from her opening singles match at the HSBC Championships in London due to a left knee injury.
Injury During Singles Match
Mboko, who received a bye into the last 16, was trailing Karolina Pliskova by a set but leading 4-3 in the second when she slipped behind the baseline while attempting to return a shot. The fall forced her into the splits, drawing a gasp from the crowd. The 19-year-old was visibly upset as she spoke with medical staff. Although she initially managed to stand and bear weight, the official reason for her retirement was a left knee injury.
On camera, Mboko was heard saying, "There is no stability right now." She walked independently to the bench, burying her face in a towel while consulting her team. The umpire eventually announced her retirement to an encouraging reception from the audience.
Doubles Partnership in Jeopardy
Serena Williams, 44, made her tennis comeback on Tuesday, securing a win alongside Mboko in their first doubles match. The duo defeated Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Erin Routliffe. They were scheduled to face Leylah Fernandez and Laura Siegemund on Thursday evening at Queen's Club. However, Mboko's injury now casts doubt on their participation.
Williams' return to tennis has been highly anticipated, and the partnership with Mboko was seen as a promising development. The extent of Mboko's injury and whether she will be fit for the doubles match remains unclear.
