Monday 5 May 2014

Tragic loss: Former British Number One Elena Baltacha has died aged 30 after fighting against liver cancer


This one is another sad news, Former British number one Elena Baltacha has died aged 30 following a fight against liver cancer.
Last year, 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. 
Tragic loss: Elena Baltacha has died aged 30 after fighting against liver cancer
She often struggle with injury and illness after being diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis at the age of 19, a chronic liver condition which compromises the immune system.
An LTA statement said: 'Today British Tennis mourns the loss of one of our own. 
'The news of the death of Elena Baltacha, one of the shining lights of British women’s tennis of recent generations, is devastating to everyone who has ever had the privilege to know her, play against her, or call her a friend or teammate.
'It leaves a huge hole within our sport. Bally gave new meaning to the word ‘fighter.’ She fought tirelessly during her career against opposition on court, and never gave in to the struggles she endured off it. 
'Forever remembered for her relentless determination, unbelievable drive and a will-power that never ceased to amaze us, it was a pleasure to watch Bally develop into a world class player and become an outstanding role model for everyone in the game.
Achievements: Baltacha won 11 singles titles, made the third round of Wimbledon in 2002 and was part of Great Britain's Fed Cup team for 11 yearsBattle: Baltacha, who was born in Kiev, was diagnosed with liver cancer in March
'With her enthusiasm, spirit and passion for life, she was a pure joy to be around, and having recently just got married to her husband Niño Severino, she was embarking on a new chapter in her life. 
'The health issues she battled since her teenage years made what she achieved during her career all the more impressive.'
The news of her passing will come as a huge shock to the tennis community, not least compatriot Andy Murray, who had already pledged to take part in a ‘Rally for Bally’ – as she was known to all of her friends – in a bid to raise funds for cancer research next month.




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