Ana Chakvetadze of Russia crumpled to the court during her match against World No. 2 Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark at the 2011 WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships in Dubai, UAE.
Chakvetadze had dropped the first set to Wozniacki but led 5-3 in the second when she suddenly collapsed. She was out before she hit the ground. She lay motionless for an instant before doctors and trainers attended to her, propped her up and checked her vital signs.
The 23-year-old rested for a few minutes before returning to play one point. She wisely retired before the next point, giving the win to Wozniacki 6-1, 3-5.
Chakvetadze appeared woozy for much of her win on Tuesday against Daniela Hantuchova and throughout the first two sets against Wozniacki.
One wonders why medical officials at the tournament let her continue following her fainting spell. We can’t blame Chakvetadze for trying. That’s what she’s there for. It is the doctor’s job to tell her she should not play on.
With a win in her next match, Wozniacki will regain the No. 1 ranking she lost to Kim Clijsters of Belgium this week.
