The tennis world reacted with stunned disbelief on Thursday as word of Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli`s retirement spread, leaving the sport without one of its most popular champions and intriguing personalities.

Following a second round loss at the Western and Southern Open on Wednesday, the 28-year-old Frenchwoman walked off the court and two hours later stepped into a press conference to shock everyone, saying: “I feel it`s time for me to walk away.”Immediately social media exploded with fans, coaches, commentators and players, past and present, reacting with surprise and support.

“Crazy to wake up hearing about bartoli_marion retiring but understand the feeling… Congrats on a great career,” said Belgian Kim Clijsters, a former world number one who retired and then later returned to the sport to win two grand slams.

Sabine Lisicki, who was left in tears after being beaten by Bartoli in the Wimbledon final. Said that”You`ve had an unbelievable career & made your dream come true! Wishing you ALL the best girl,”

The Bartoli buzz dominated conversation at the Western and Southern Open with players arriving on Thursday not only to find out that the popular Frenchwoman had been knocked out of the tournament but had left the sport.

world number two Victoria Azarenka told that he actually saw that on Twitter and he like, that`s some crap,” he says “I think everybody`s a little bit surprised about that.”I think it`s very brave to do that. I think she was chasing her dream for such a long time. When she got it, it felt good. So whatever makes her happy.”There`s no doubt it`s been surprising for everybody.”