The one of the top-50 former tennis players, Elena Baltacha passed away on Sunday. It is said that she has been suffering from liver cancer since she retired from the game. She was 30 years old.

The Lawn Tennis Association announced her death report on its official web site. Besides, Iain Bates former Fed Cup coach described Baltacha as one of the best competitors. He said that “She was a true friend and role model for all us”.

It is said the Baltacha was diagnosed with illness after she got married with her long time coach Nino Severino.  Her husband said to media reporters that “our hearts are bleeding and we are in a state of shock”.

Last but not the least Baltacha was diagnosed with liver cancer when she was 19 years old. Her best ranking in the tennis game was 49th in 2010 and she had reached the third round in Grand Slam tournaments three times in her life.