Korean tennis sensation Hyeon Chung has released a picture of the severe blister that forced him to retire hurt from the Australian Open.
Chung, 21, conceded his semi-final against Switzerland’s Roger Federer midway through the second set at Melbourne Park on Friday night.
His abrupt exit, which came soon after he called time for his trainer to examine and restrap his foot, prompted boos from disappointed fans as he walked off the court.
Korean tennis sensation Hyeon Chung has released a picture of the severe blister that forced him to retire hurt from the Australian Open
Chung (pictured), 21, conceded his semi-final against Switzerland’s Roger Federer midway through the second set at Melbourne Park on Friday night
The photo posted on Saturday shows extent of the wound, which looks more like a missing chunk of flesh than a blister.
‘Tonight, I tried very hard to bring my utmost energy to the tennis court as usual,’ said Chung.
‘However, I had to make a tough decision given that I cannot compete 100% against Roger, in front of many tennis fans.
‘Please understand. I wish all the best luck for Roger Federer in the finals.’
Chung’s agent addressed the media after the match, explaining the blister was worse than average.
‘Over the last few days, it was blister under blister under blister. He had it shaved off, now it’s red raw,’ IMG’s Stuart Duguid said.
Chung’s abrupt exit, which came soon after he called time for his trainer to examine and restrap his foot (pictured), prompted boos from disappointed fans as he walked off the court
‘They tried injections to see if it numbed the pain, it didn’t work. It’s much worse than a regular blister.
‘I think a lot of players get callouses. As they go along, they shave them down. Because he has played so many matches in a row, I think that’s why.’
‘It really hurt, I could not walk anymore,’ said Chung after the match.
‘I think I did right thing. I’m happy to be able to make the semis in a grand slam. I want to be stronger next year.’
It was a sad ending to an inspiring Australian Open campaign in which the world No. 58 (pictured) defeated a number of big names on his way to the final four
It was a sad ending to an inspiring Australian Open campaign in which the world No. 58 defeated a number of big names on his way to the final four.
Federer, who won the first set 6-1 and was leading 5-2 in the second when Chung retired hurt, was full of praise for his young opponent.
‘I could tell something was wrong before he took the injury timeout, but he has a great composure,’ said Federer.
‘He is already a great player, but we are talking next level excellence and I think he will achieve that.
‘We will see much more of him. Top 10 for sure. The rest we will see.’
Federer, who exploded at the chair umpire over a late call during the match, will play Marin Cilic of Croatia in the final on Sunday.
Federer (pictured), who won the first set 6-1 and was leading 5-2 in the second when Chung retired hurt, was full of praise for his young opponent