SUE BARKER may be forced to cut her last Wimbledon short after falling ill with laryngitis.
The legendary former player and BBC presenter has already confirmed it will be her last year offering Wimbledon coverage.
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The 1976 French Open champion and former world No3 hangs up the microphone after three decades in the role.
But her farewell appearance in front of the camera could come prematurely if she can not complete this summer’s tournament.
Barker, 66, is set to run until next Sunday’s men’s final.
But she whispered to the Daily Mail: “I have laryngitis, so I’m trying to save my voice. [for broadcast]. “
Laryngitis is when the voice box or vocal cords in the throat become irritated or swollen.
It usually comes on suddenly and gets worse for the first three days, but tends to go away on its own within one to two weeks.
Barker has not missed any of her presentation slots so far – although BBC viewers on Day One of the Championships were worried because she was only on the air later that day.
A BBC spokesman said: “There are no plans for Sue to take a break and she is ready for the Center Court celebration [of its centenary] on Sunday. “
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Barker revealed that she would resign from her role after the death of her mother, 100 years old.
She said: “My mother was always so interested in my broadcasting career and we talked every night.
“When something like this happens, it makes you reconsider life, which is another reason why I think it’s the right time.”
At Queen’s, Matteo Berrettini left the former Question of Sport host in tears when he paid an emotional tribute to Barker after defending his title.
And former hot-head-turned-pundit John McEnroe could not hide his disappointment over Barker’s impending retirement.
The American said directly on the air: “I heard a lot, a lot of disturbing news.
“Is it possible that this is your last Wimbledon?
“You can ‘t be serious! Are you kidding? You’re an icon here!”
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