Serena Williams pulls out of Swedish Open with elbow injury

Serena Williams addresses the press conference at the Swedish Open

Newly crowned Wimbledon champion Serena Williams pulled out of the Swedish Open due to an elbow injury. The American said she felt pain in her right elbow in the first round match against Ysaline Bonaventure, which she won 6-2, 6-1.

“I was having some pain in my elbow, and I felt it a little bit in my match,” Serena said. “But this morning it really exploded [in practice]. I really couldn’t hit serves.”

The 2013 Swedish Open champion said she took the right decision keeping in mind what’s best for her body. Serena told fans on court that she would compete in Bastad again.

“I always enjoy my time here. I have such a great time. My fans here are really amazing, I love all you guys,”Serena said. The nature of the injury and how long Serena would take to come back on the tour are unknown.

Klara Koukalova will now advance to the quarterfinals by walkover.