Tennis player Elena Baltacha died on Sunday, May 4 after battling liver cancer.
The Women's Tennis Association reports how Baltacha was only 30 years of age at the time of her death. She was diagnosed with liver cancer in January after retiring from tennis two months prior and a couple of weeks after marrying coach and partner Nino Severino. Severino issued a statement expressing his grief over losing Baltacha. Severino says, "We are heartbroken beyond words at the loss of our beautiful, talented and determined Bally. She was an amazing person and she touched so many people with her inspirational spirit, her warmth and her kindness."
According to E Online, Baltacha had arranged a "Rally for Bally" charity event to take place on June 15. She wanted to raise funds for a cancer hospital and a tennis academy which would bear her name. Many tennis players such as Tim Henman, Andy Murray and Martina Navratilova are scheduled to participate in the charity event.
Many of Baltcha's fellow tennis players took to Twitter to express their sympathies over her passing.
My deepest prayers, thoughts, concern and love goes out to Elena Baltacha's family. I am deeply sorry for your loss. Revelation 21:4
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) May 5, 2014
What sad news to wake up to today. My thoughts and prayers are with Elena's family on their tragic loss.
— Maria Sharapova (@MariaSharapova) May 5, 2014
So sad to hear of Elena Baltacha's passing- my thoughts are with her family and loved ones, gone much much too soon...
— Martina Navratilova (@Martina) May 5, 2014
This has been a very sad day. I am sending my condolences to Elena's family
— Jelena Jankovic (@jelena_jankovic) May 5, 2014
Very sad to hear that Elena Baltacha passed away. RIP.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) May 5, 2014
I have no words. I can't believe it. One of the nicest players on tour. Only 30 y.o... RIP Elena http://t.co/HuNTJEsOMI
— Arina Rodionova (@arinarodionova) May 5, 2014