Tue Jul 01 12:50:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here are two versions of the same information: a summary and a news article.
**Summary:**
Barbora Krejcikova, the defending Wimbledon champion, has withdrawn from the Eastbourne International due to a right thigh injury. This grants Varvara Gracheva a walkover into the semifinals. Krejcikova, who had previously won two grueling three-set matches saving multiple match points, cited soreness as the reason for her withdrawal. Her participation in Wimbledon, starting next week, is now in question. Gracheva is now through to her first tour-level semifinal since 2023.
**News Article:**
**Krejcikova Withdraws from Eastbourne with Thigh Injury, Wimbledon Title Defense in Doubt**
EASTBOURNE, UK – Defending Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova has pulled out of the Lexus Eastbourne International ahead of her scheduled quarterfinal match today, citing a right thigh injury. The withdrawal hands a walkover to qualifier Varvara Gracheva, who advances to her first tour-level semifinal since reaching the Austin final in 2023.
“I’m very sorry to have to withdraw from my quarterfinal today in Eastbourne as I’m having some soreness in my right thigh,” Krejcikova said in a statement. “I’ve truly enjoyed my time down here the past week and loved being back on the grass.”
The Czech star had endured a physically demanding week, winning two consecutive three-set matches against British wild cards. She saved a combined five match points to defeat Harriet Dart and Jodie Burrage, becoming the first player to win from match point down in consecutive rounds since Elise Mertens at the 2023 US Open.
Krejcikova is scheduled to begin her Wimbledon title defense on Centre Court next Tuesday. Her withdrawal from Eastbourne casts serious doubt on her fitness and ability to compete at the All England Club.
Gracheva, ranked No. 111, will face either Dayana Yastremska or fellow qualifier Alexandra Eala in the semifinals.
First Piper 