Elena Baltacha, Former British No.1, Diagnosed With Liver Cancer

Former British No.1 Baltacha Diagnosed With Liver Cancer
LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 24: Elena Baltacha of Great Britain hits a forehand during the Ladies Singles match against Flavia Pennetta of Italy on day one of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on June 24, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Dennis Grombkowski/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 24: Elena Baltacha of Great Britain hits a forehand during the Ladies Singles match against Flavia Pennetta of Italy on day one of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on June 24, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Dennis Grombkowski/Getty Images)
Dennis Grombkowski via Getty Images

Former British number one Elena Baltacha has been diagnosed with cancer of the liver.

The 30-year-old only retired from tennis in November last year but at the age of 19, she was diagnosed with the liver condition primary sclerosing cholangitis.

"I have recently been diagnosed with cancer of the liver," Baltacha said in a statement.

"I'm currently undergoing treatment and fighting this illness with everything I have."

Judy Murray, captain of the GB Fed Cup Team added: "Obviously this is a tough time for Bally, Nino and her family but she is a such a determined, upbeat person and everyone around her is staying positive as well. I know she'll be really grateful for all the support that she's getting."

Baltacha won 11 titles during her career and married her long-term coach and boyfriend Nino in December.

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