British tennis star retires from Australian Open in tears
Fran Jones received treatment before eventually retiring from her first-round match (REUTERS)
British tennis player Fran Jones retired in tears from her Australian Open first-round match against Linda Klimovicova on Monday due to a gluteal injury.
Jones, who had been managing a groin problem, sustained the new injury after an early stumble during the match.
The 25-year-old became visibly emotional on court and withdrew while trailing 6-2, 3-2, later discussing her distress in a press conference.
Jones, who has a genetic condition and a history of physical challenges, expressed frustration at the timing, having recently achieved a career-high ranking.
She indicated a need to seek expert physical help to improve her capacity to compete consistently at the top level of the sport.