During a Wimbledon women's doubles match on Sunday, Mexican player Giuliana Olmos accidentally hit a return shot straight at the head of her opponent, Norwegian Ulrikke Eikeri, at point-blank range. The incident occurred in the second game of the deciding set, leaving the crowd audibly gasping.
Match Context and Incident
The team of American Quinn Gleason and Norwegian Ulrikke Eikeri faced off against Mexican Giuliana Olmos and American-Estonian Ingrid Neel. With Gleason serving and her team leading 30-15, a baseline rally ended when Olmos intercepted the ball at the net and fired a return directly at Eikeri, who had bent down to avoid the shot. The ball struck her head and went out of play.
Immediate Aftermath
Olmos immediately apologized, repeatedly saying “sorry” and extending her hand. She approached Eikeri, who quickly recovered, took a drink, and returned to the court within seconds. Despite winning that game, Gleason and Eikeri ultimately lost the match 3-6, 7-5, 6-4.
Players' Backgrounds
Olmos, 33, has seven WTA doubles titles and reached a career-high ranking of world No. 6 in April 2023. She partnered with Neel for the grass-court season, debuting at the Libéma Open in June and reaching the final. Neel, 28, has four WTA doubles titles and peaked at No. 33 in May 2024. Eikeri, 33, is a four-time doubles champion with a best ranking of 26th in April 2024, currently ranked 40th. Gleason, 31, is ranked 34th and has won two WTA doubles titles.
Next Round
Olmos and Neel advanced to the round of 16, where they will face third seeds Anna Danilina of Kazakhstan and Aleksandra Krunic of Serbia on Monday.
