Former British number one tennis player Elena Baltacha has died of liver cancer at the age of 30.
Baltacha, who stood as British number one for almost three years, revealed that she had the illness in March of this year.
"Today we have lost a shining light from the heart of British tennis - a true role model, a great competitor and a wonderful friend," said Lawn Tennis Association head of women's tennis Iain Bates.
"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."
Baltacha won 11 singles titles and also made the third round of Wimbledon in 2002.
Written by
Christopher Dodd
Christopher Dodd
