Venus Williams screams in agony at Wimbledon as she injures knee early in first round match

The five-time Wimbledon champion was at the net against Elina Svitolina when she slipped and fell to the ground

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Venus Williams screamed out in pain as she injured her right knee early in her first round match at Wimbledon against Elina Svitolina.

The 43-year-old, five times a singles champion at the All England Club, was at the net at break point on her own serve when her right leg slipped attempting a backhand volley.

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The American immediately clutched her right knee, already heavily bandaged, with a devastating scream shocking spectators on Centre Court as she fell to the ground.

The trainer was immediately called to the court but, after a medical timeout, Williams returned to action on court.

While she seemed to improve in her movement as the first set progressed, fellow wild card Svitolina took the opening set 6-4.

The trainer was again called to court at the end of the set and Williams took another medical timeout.

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Unlike years gone by, the 43-year-old could not fight back this time and succumbed 6-4 6-3.

Williams is making her 24^th main draw appearance at Wimbledon this year, a record in the open-era.

The incident brought back memories of Williams’ sister, Serena, injuring her ankle in a first round match at the Championships two years ago.