Serena Williams Withdraws From Rogers Cup Final vs. Andreescu

TORONTO — After only 19 minutes and so much buildup, Serena Williams retired in the first set of the Rogers Cup final after falling behind by 3-1 to the Canadian teenager Bianca Andreescu.

The sudden end to the match, which featured Williams seeking her first title of 2019 and Andreescu trying to become the first Canadian in 50 years to win the event, stunned the crowd.

Although she did not seem to favor any part of her body, Williams clearly looked out of sorts, making several errors and trying to keep the points short.

After Williams retired, Andreescu walked over to her at the player’s chair, where the two hugged and had a brief exchange.

With Williams in tears, Andreescu did her best to provide encouragement. She told Williams that she knew her own body better than anyone that she should not push it, especially with the U.S. Open coming up.

“I watched you throughout your whole career,” Andreescu told Williams. “You’re a freaking beast.”

Andreescu then addressed the crowd: “I’m feeling weird right now,” the 19-year-old said. “I’m so sorry she had to go out this way. But sometimes you can’t push your body. I wish her a fast recovery.”

Williams congratulated Andreescu and then told her: “This isn’t the way you wanted to win, I’m sure.”

Still fighting back tears, Williams told the crowd: “I’m sorry I couldn’t do it today,” and Andreescu’s eyes welled up, too, as Williams spoke.