Stefanos Tsitsipas was “without answers” after being forced to retire injured from his first-round match at Wimbledon on Monday.

Tsitsipas was down 6-3 6-2 to French qualifier Valentin Royer when his recurring back issue proved to be too limiting.

The Greek first suffered the injury at the ATP Tour Finals in 2023 and has struggled to overcome the issue, despite winning the Dubai title earlier this year.

Tsitsipas, who was once world number three, is 19-12 in matches this year as his injury problems continue to derail him.

“I'm battling many wars these days. It's really painful to see myself in a situation like this,” said Tsitsipas afterwards.

“I feel like I'm left without answers. I don't know. I've tried everything.

“I've done an incredible job with my fitness. I've done an incredible job with my physiotherapy, so I've maximised everything that I possibly can do.

“Right now, I'm just absolutely left with no answers.

Stefanos Tsitispas is forced to retire against Valentin Royer due to a back injury.

Wishing you a speedy recovery! @steftsitsipas @Wimbledon | #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/amsHpQyz4q

— ATP Tour (@atptour) June 30, 2025

“It's probably the most difficult situation that I've ever been faced with, because it's an ongoing issue that doesn't seem to be disappearing or fading.

“I have a limit at some point, so I'll definitely have to have my final answer on whether I want to do stuff or not in the next couple of months.

“Tennis is a rotational sport, and if you can't rotate, then there's no reason to play it.”

Royer will now face Adrian Mannarino in an all-French matchup in the second round.