Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli has revealed that she was told she was fat every day during a relationship with her former partner.
A year ago fears were raised about the health of the 33-year-old. A mystery illness, which was later diagnosed as the HINI virus, forced Bartoli in and out of hospital. During that period, she lost a vast amount of weight with rumours being spread that she was anorexic. In 2016 she was asked to withdraw from the a Wimbledon doubles invitational tournament because of health concerns.
At the time it was unknown that there was something else causing Bartoli’s weight loss other than the illness. During an interview with French sports newspaper L’Equipe earlier this week, the former world No.7 revealed that she was also in an emotionally abusive relationship. Saying that she has been left ‘emotionally damaged’ by her former partner, who was not named.
“I let myself get destroyed by someone and I did not think it was possible,” Bartoli told L’Equipe.
“When I retired, I was the happiest in the world. Then I met my ex boyfriend in May 2014 and every day he would tell me that I was fat. Every day. He would see a thin girl on the street and tell me: ‘See how skinny and pretty she is’.”
The return
Enduring a difficult past couple of years, Bartoli is embarking upon a new challenge. Last month she shocked the tour by announcing her comeback. Four years after she retired from the sport. Her goal is to be ready in time to compete at the Miami Open, which will get underway in March.
“I want to prove to myself that I am alive. If I come back, it is to try and play big matches on big courts and feel those emotions again,” she said.
“I obviously need to lose weight, between five and seven kilos. I will not go back on court if I’m not at my optimum weight.”
Since announcing her return, Bartoli has received support from many people in the world of tennis. Including former world No.1 players Serena Williams and Monica Seles. Nine-time grand slam champion Seles has advised the Frenchwoman to ‘take her time’ in her comeback. Warning Bartoli against risking injury.
“I had messages from Serena and Monica Seles. It was very positive messages.” Said Bartoli.
“When Serena tells me that I am really the proof of courage, it makes me extremely happy.” She added.
During her career, Bartoli has won eight WTA titles, including the 2013 Wimbledon Championships.
