2013 Wimbledon winner fears for life after mystery virus causes dramatic weight loss

New Delhi: Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli on Thursday revealed being hit by a mystery virus which has caused dramatic weight loss.

The Frenchwoman also stated that she feared for her life due the deteriorating medical condition.

The 2013 champion shocked fans with her skeletal appearance and was even prohibited from playing in an invitational event at Wimbledon this week after doctors expressed fears over her health.

Marion Bartoli withdrawn from #Wimbledon doubles match for 'medical' reasons amid weight loss concerns. pic.twitter.com/A9iyBQCdrV — Tennis Photos (@tennis_photos) July 6, 2016

Bartoli said she probably picked up the virus when flying between Australia, New York and India in January and February this year.

"I fear for my life. I worry that one day my heart will stop," the 31-year-old told ITV's 'This Morning' show. 

"This is not life. I am just surviving."

She has since lost 20 kilos which has reduced her life to a 'living nightmare'.

Bartoli said that after visiting Miami and Dallas in February to promote her fashion line, her condition started to deteriorate.

"I felt worse and my body rejected more and more things," she said.

“I can't type on the phone without gloves and for no more than five minutes as my heart will start to pump faster.

“My life is a living nightmare. I don't wish this on anyone but it is gradually getting worse. I want to go back to a normal life.“

(With Agency inputs)