Davenport pulls out of Wimbledon

The former Wimbledon champion Lindsay Davenport confirmed last night that she has withdrawn from this year's tournament.

The 25-year-old American, who won the title in 1999, is still recovering from undergoing knee surgery back in January.

She said: "I am extremely disappointed not to be able to play on grass at Wimbledon this year. I really hoped I could make it back from surgery earlier than expected and be able to play in Eastbourne and Wimbledon. But it is not possible yet. I am working hard and my rehab has been going very well.

"Unfortunately the doctors say I am not ready to compete at the highest level yet. I am totally optimistic that I will be ready for the summer hard court season in July."

Meanwhile, one of Britain's leading prospects, Elena Baltacha, gave an indication at Edgbaston yesterday that she is on the mend after an injury-plagued season.

The 18-year-old British No 3, who missed four months from November with chicken pox, food poisoning and tonsillitis, dug deep before losing 6-1, 6-3 to Magui Serna, of Spain, in the first round of the DFS Classic.

"I am fully fit now. I just need to play more competitive matches as I know I have a lot of improving to do," said Baltacha.

Last year's beaten finalist, Miriam Oremans of the Netherlands, moved into the second round by defeating the United States' Marissa Irvin 6-2, 6-2.