Serena Williams was forced to withdraw from her opening match at Wimbledon on Tuesday due to an apparent leg injury.

“I was devastated to have to pull out today after injuring my right leg. I’m incredibly grateful for the support from the fans and the team who make competing on Centre Court so special. The overwhelming warmth and encouragement from the crowd when I stepped onto – and off – the court meant everything to me,” Williams revealed on Instagram.

As reported by NBC Sports, the 39-year-old tennis icon slipped on the court during her match against Aliaksandra Sasnovich and hobbled to her chair, later leaving briefly for an injury timeout.

Despite returning with her right thigh taped, Williams fell to her knees shortly after play resumed.

With the match tied at 3-all in the first set, Williams, seeded No. 6, was forced to retire from the tournament. As she exited the court, visibly emotional, she waved to the crowd, who reciprocated with a standing ovation, showing their support as she fought back tears.

“I’m really saddened for Serena; she’s such a remarkable champion,” Sasnovich expressed, as reported by ESPN. “In tennis, these things can happen, but I wish her all the best for her recovery.”

According to the publication, this marks only the second occasion in Williams’ career where she withdrew from a major match. The previous instance was during the third round of the 1998 All England Club.