Wimbledon 2013: Michael Llodra becomes the latest withdrawal as injuries continue to mount
Frenchman joins the seven players to withdraw yesterday with conditions of the court remaining in the spotlight
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Your support makes all the difference.The latest twist in this Wimbledon's injury saga came from the Frenchman Michael Llodra, who withdrew after one set of a singles match claiming injury, then took part in doubles a few hours later, becoming a winner when an opponent had to pull out.
Llodra cited a hamstring injury during his second round match against the 23rd seed Andreas Seppi, who had won the first set 7-5. He decided it was more important to concentrate on his doubles match, partnering fellow-countryman Nicolas Mahut in a match against the Czech pair Jan Hajek and Jaroslav Levinsky, in which Levinsky pulled out after nine games with a back problem.
Llodra, who has a long history of retirements, said: "I have a problem since a couple of weeks ago with my hamstrings. It happened in the French Open. Since that, it's painful like every day.
"I pulled out from Queen's two weeks ago and today I was not [fit] enough to play singles. Doubles is easier, you play halfcourt."
He admitted it would be difficult for spectators to understand, but insisted: "The season is long. I promise, if I can continue, I continue. This is one of my favourite slams. You have to make some decisions. It was not easy. But in my mind I think I have chances to win the doubles. Not in singles like this. So the choice is very easy."
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