Why has Serena Williams pulled out of the 2018 French Open?

SERENA Williams was forced to pull out of the French Open shortly before she was due to go on court on Monday.

The former Number 1 seed was competiting in her first competition since coming back from the birth of her daughter Alexis.

1

Why has Serena Williams pulled out of the French Open?

Serena Williams has been forced to pull out due to injury and is set to go for a scan to find out the extent of the damage.

Signs that she was not 100 per cent fit were seen in her doubles match with sister Venus as her serving speed was down.

In a press conference called shortly after the news broke, she said: "I've had issues with the right pectoral muscle to the point where I can't serve.

"I'll have a scan. I won't know about Wimbledon until I get the results."

Who was she due to play?

Serena was set to face rival Maria Sharapova in the fourth round of the competition on Monday.

The former World Number One was unseeded in the competition after taking time away following the birth of daughter Alexis while the Russian is rebuilding her ranking after a drugs ban.

Sharapova has been given a by to the next round due to the retirement.

MORE ON THE FRENCH OPEN

GOT A HELPING MAND

My mum won Australian Open twice, now I’m making my own way in tennis

GRACIAS RAFA

Nadal breaks down in tears after last-ever match as tennis world says goodbye

TEEN-NIS SENSATION

Wimbledon champ's 13-year-old brother already following in his footsteps

ROGER GETS IT RIGHT

Roger Federer's tribute to Rafael Nadal is as classy as you'd expect

How can you watch the action at Roland Garros?

The French Open is being shown on ITV4 throughout the day.

The coverage for Tuesday and Wednesday starts at 12.30pm and continues through to 8pm.

The ladies's singles final is on Saturday at 1.30pm.