Venus Williams exits Wimbledon

Five-time champion Venus Williams was knocked out of Wimbledon at the first hurdle by Elena Vesnina this afternoon.

The American had rarely featured on court over the last seven months with a succession of injuries and illness.

Her rustiness showed in the opening set against her Russian opponent, who dropped just one game on her way to recording a 6-1 success.

Williams produced slightly better form with her service game in the second set. However, Vesnina still proved too strong for the 32-year-old as she went on to secure her passage into round two courtesy of a 6-3 triumph.

Some reports have claimed that Williams may decide to retire from the sport following today's defeat.