In tennis, the saying “you’ve got to be in it to win it” couldn’t be more accurate. However, like any competitive sport, injuries and unforeseen circumstances can prevent players from participating, resulting in withdrawals. These withdrawals are categorized as either walkovers or retirements, depending on the timing and circumstances.
What is a Walkover in Tennis?
A walkover happens when a player automatically advances to the next round without playing because their opponent cannot participate.
- This usually occurs due to the opponent’s injury, illness, or disqualification.
- Walkovers are confirmed before the match starts.
- If the withdrawal happens early enough, a “lucky loser” (a player who lost in the qualifying rounds) may take the withdrawing player’s place.
What is a Retirement in Tennis?
A retirement refers to a player withdrawing mid-match, typically due to injury, illness, or other immediate reasons.
- For example, a player might pull out during the second set if they experience a severe muscle strain or are unable to continue due to heat exhaustion.
The Key difference Between Walkovers and Retirements
- A walkover is a pre-match withdrawal, where the opponent never steps onto the court.
- A retirement happens during the match, forcing the player to forfeit while it’s still in progress.
Although the terms are distinct, they’re sometimes mistakenly used interchangeably, which can cause confusion among fans. Whether it’s a walkover or a retirement, these situations highlight the physical and mental challenges players face in the demanding world of professional tennis.