Francesca Jones leaves court in a wheelchair after collapsing at Viking Open Nottingham

When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they’ll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time.

British No 4 Fran Jones left the court in a wheelchair after suffering body convulsions and collapsing after her first round defeat at the Viking Open Nottingham. The 20-year-old started cramping before the end of her three-set defeat to Georgina Garcia Perez in 20 degree heat.

Jones, who was born with a rare genetic condition, went to her chair and started shaking.

Garcia Perez came over and helped the Yorkshirewoman lie down on the court before medical assistance arrived.

The world No 187 spent over 15 minutes on Court 1 before being taken into the shade behind the stand. He then further received further treatment on-site at the Nottingham Tennis Centre.

World No 83 Garcia Perez, who won 6-4 3-6 6-4, said: “Yes I was worried. I saw her suffering. I didn’t know what was happening because she was playing and running good, no problems during the match. So when I saw her suffering I went immediately to try and help. I hope I could help her a bit.

“First of all we are humans. It is my way to do it at least. For me this is more important than to win a tennis match.

“I know her. I have a good relationship with her like” hello, how are you?” and all this. But we are not seeing her so much. I think she’s nice and we have a good relationship.”

Jones, who underwent multiple surgeries as a child, has three fingers and a thumb on each hand plays with a specially modified Wilson racquet. After being told she could never become a professional tennis player, she qualified for the Australian Open earlier this year and is set to be awarded a Wimbledon wildcard.

MORE TO FOLLOW

Source: Read Full Article