Elise Mertens graduated in the opening round in Rome: “No more championship until Roland Garros” | Tennis

In the inaugural round on Romanian clay courts, the 25-year-old Limburg, who has ranked first in the world in doubles since Monday, slipped in three sets against Russian Veronica Kudermetova (WTA 28), one of her double partners: 4-6 and 6 – 2 and 6-3 after 2 hours and 19 minutes. For Mertens, it was the first defeat ever against Kudermitova, after four previous victories. In the next round, she will face Frenchman Caroline Garcia (WTA 56).

Last week, our compatriot had to succumb to a injury in the WTA quarter-finals in Madrid. With a score of 6-1 4-0 in favor of the Belarusian Arena Sabalenka, she then surrendered. Limburg then complained about the charge being charged to the left thigh. The day before, she had faltered by defeating lawn specialist Simona Halep.

After losing, she said, “I will no longer play a championship for Roland Garros.” “I really feel like my body needs a rest. I’ve already had some minor injuries this year and most importantly, I can get to Paris with great energy. With the experience I’ve gained, I now know what I can do (on gravel, editor) and what I can improve on or What needs to be improved. And then you also learn a lot of loss. ”