You’ve got to be in it to win it, and that catchphrase certainly applies to tennis.
Unfortunately, like any sport, injuries and other factors can limit a player’s availability.
This can lead to withdrawals from matches, which are typically referred to as either walkovers or retirements.
The Sporting News explains.
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What is a walkover in tennis?
In tennis, a walkover occurs when a player progresses to the next round of a tournament without playing their match because their opponent cannot participate.
This may be because their opponent is injured, ill, or has been removed from the event entirely.
Typically, a walkover is confirmed pre-match.
Depending on the timing of the announcement, a ‘lucky loser’ will replace the withdrawing player.
What is a retirement in tennis?
Retirement refers to the mid-match withdrawal of a player.
It is primarily due to injury or illness.
What is the difference between a walkover and retirement?
As outlined above, a walkover typically occurs when a player withdraws pre-match, while a retirement involves a mid-match forfeit.
However, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, even if traditionally considered incorrect.
