Ukraine born former British number one tennis player, Elena Baltacha has died of liver cancer, aged 30. Baltacha who was raised in Scotland, revealed she had the illness in March 2014, after learning about it in mid-January 2014, two months after retiring from professional tennis and only a few weeks after marrying. Baltacha, who was British number one for nearly three years, retired from the sport in 2013. “We are heartbroken beyond words at the loss of our beautiful, talented and determined Bally,” said husband Nino Severino. “She was an amazing person and she touched so many people with her inspirational spirit, her warmth and her kindness,” added Severino, her long-time coach. She won 11 singles titles, made the third round of Wimbledon in 2002 and was part of Great Britain’s Fed Cup team for 11 years. Lawn Tennis Association head of women’s tennis Iain Bates said: “Today we have lost a shining light from the heart of British tennis – a true role model, a great competitor and a wonderful friend. “We have so many special memories to cherish, but this leaves a gaping hole for everybody in both British and women’s tennis, and words simply cannot express how saddened we are by this news. “All our thoughts are with Nino and the rest of Elena’s family. We will miss you Bal.”
- Mirror
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