Wimbledon 2016: Marion Bartoli says a 'horrendous' virus is behind dramatic weight loss

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Wimbledon 2016: Marion Bartoli says a 'horrendous' virus is behind dramatic weight loss

By Linda Pearce
Updated

London: Former champion Marion Bartoli a has blamed a "horrendous" mystery virus for her shocking weight loss, which the 2013 Wimbledon winner says has left her fearing for her life.

The Frenchwoman was prevented from contesting an invitational doubles event at the All England Club after doctors expressed concerns over her health following a dramatic loss of more than 20 kilograms. Bartoli has denied she is suffering from an eating disorder.

In an interview on British television, the 31-year-old said the rare illness she had contracted earlier this year after leaving Australia - in India, she suspects - has left her body unable to process protein and reduced to eating only organic salad leaves and skinless cucumbers.

She is forced to wash in mineral water, and not have any contact with tap water, Bartoli said. She needs to wear gloves to use her mobile phone, and is limited to a maximum of five minutes contact with electrical devices to avoid an accelerated heart rate, and also suffers from allergic reactions to wearing certain jewellery and clothing items and tissues.

Marion Bartoli, centre, poses with hosts on a British breakfast television show.

Marion Bartoli, centre, poses with hosts on a British breakfast television show.Credit: Twitter

"It's absolutely horrendous," she said. "My life right now is an absolute nightmare. What I am going through, I wouldn't wish it on [anyone]." Asked if she feared death, Bartoli said: "Yes, of course, because maybe one day my heart is going to stop.

"I'm praying to God every single day to go back to a normal life. I'm trying. Every time I'm eating a little bit. I am scared of the reaction to my body."

Doctors have been unable to diagnose the specifics of the virus, she said, confirming she would start a special course of treatment at a clinic next Monday.

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At Wimbledon, women's finalists Serena Williams and Angelique Kerber both offered their support. "I was really proud to hear she did say something. She took it upon herself to acknowledge what she's been fighting through," Williams said. "I really admire anyone that is courageous like that."

Private battle: Marion Bartoli in action in Adelaide in January.

Private battle: Marion Bartoli in action in Adelaide in January. Credit: Getty Images

Bartoli's surprise Wimbledon success was tainted by BBC commentator John Inverdale's comment that she had devoted herself to tennis because she was never going to be "a looker".

with agencies

Marion Bartoli of France smiling as she holds the trophy after winning the Women's singles final at Wimbledon in 2013.

Marion Bartoli of France smiling as she holds the trophy after winning the Women's singles final at Wimbledon in 2013.Credit: AP

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