Stefanos Tsitsipas has withdrawn from his opening match at Wimbledon following a back injury that hampered his performance against French qualifier Valentin Royer.
The Greek player, seeded 24th at the Championships, retired whilst trailing 6-3 6-2 on Court 12.
The former world number three struggled throughout the encounter and required medical attention during the second set.
After losing the opening set, Tsitsipas found himself facing an uphill battle as his physical condition deteriorated.
Stefanos Tsitsipas has been forced to retire from Wimbledon
Reuters
His retirement handed Royer a memorable victory at SW19, marking a significant moment for the French player who was making his mark in the main draw.
Tsitsipas called for the physiotherapist whilst trailing 1-4 in the second set after a double break.
The 24-year-old received treatment for his back whilst lying on the court as medical staff attended to him.
Despite the intervention, he attempted to continue and even created three break points when Royer served for the set at 5-2. However, the qualifier saved all three opportunities and secured a commanding two-set advantage.
The Greek player appeared increasingly uncomfortable as he made his way to his chair at the changeover.
His movement had been noticeably restricted following the medical timeout, affecting his ability to compete effectively.
The 24th seed appeared to seek guidance from his coach, 2001 Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic, before making his final decision.
Commentator Arvind Palmer observed: "He's in conversation there, he's almost looking for an answer from Goran, 'Should I continue?' And Goran has given him the, 'Well, it's up to you'."
Palmer had earlier noted: "Tsitsipas is really struggling with his game. He's got the physio out once again so he's in discussion.
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Stefanos Tsitsipas was being readily beaten by the time he retired
Reuters
"We'll have to wait and see whether he continues this one, Tsitsipas, because he is struggling and there is a mountain for him to climb now."
After deliberating on his bench, Tsitsipas approached the chair umpire to confirm his withdrawal. The official then summoned Royer for the customary handshake.
The victory represents a breakthrough moment for Royer, who secured his maiden tour-level triumph through Tsitsipas's retirement.
The world number 113 had never previously won a match at this level, making his advancement to the second round particularly significant.
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Stefanos Tsitsipas has had physical struggles for some time
Reuters
The French qualifier's composed performance against the 24th seed demonstrated his readiness for the grand slam stage.
He capitalised on Tsitsipas's physical struggles whilst maintaining his own level throughout the abbreviated contest.
Royer's achievement marks him as one of the early success stories of this year's Championships, progressing beyond the first round in his main draw appearance at Wimbledon.
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