Na Li’s surprise exit

Written by: Global Chick on 24th June 2011

Na Li’s surprise exit

Na Li of China returns to Sabine Lisicki of Germany during their second round match for the Wimbledon Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis Club, in London, Britain, 23 June 2011. EPA/NEIL MUNNS |

Chinese super star Na Li lost to German wildcard Sabine Lisicki 6-3, 4-6, 8-6. Lisicki shed some tears after the match having saved two match points and being down a break in the third set on Centre Court.

The marathon match lasted two hours and eleven minutes.

She is very grateful for the wildcard she was given by the tournament organisers at Wimbledon. The German won the Birmingham title two weeks ago.

Last year Lisicki had five months out from tennis because of an ankle injury. “I had to start from zero. I was on crutches for seven weeks. I had no muscles left in my calf. I had to learn to walk again.”

“I really appreciate the wildcard from Wimbledon. I love this place. The crowd really helped me. The support was amazing,” the German said.

Li was full of praise for Lisicki. “Tough match today, of course I was a little sad. But I think both players today played a great match on the court. All I can say is unlucky for me. I had two match points. But I can do nothing for these match points. I think also both players were fighting a lot on the court.”

Global Chick

24/6/2011