Petra Kvitova pulls out, due to illness

A week before the start of her Wimbledon defence, Petra Kvitova has withdrawn from the WTA Aegon International due to illness.

Last year, Kvitova defeated Eugenie Bouchard 6-3 6-0 in the showpiece at the All England Club, claiming her second crown after previously lifting the title in 2011 with a win over Maria Sharapova.

However, her preparations for the 2015 edition have been less than ideal, with the Czech forced to pull out of the WTA Premier grass-court event in Eastbourne.

With world number one Serena Williams again opting to rest rather than compete at the tournament, Kvitova was the top seed but will now focus on her recovery.

"I hope I can be ready for Wimbledon," said Kvitova, who is suffering from a sore throat, although the problem does not require antibiotics.