Sad news from the tennis world as Jana Novotna passed away at only 49 years of age.

The Czech was a great personality that inspired the tennis world with her fantastic serve and volley style. She was the world no.1 in doubles (she won 12 slams and 76 titles), and she reached the 2nd spot in the rankings in singles in July 1997.  Jana won 24 WTA titles in singles, and she conquered Wimbledon in 1998.

Jana was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2005. She passed away peacefully with the love of her family.

From the WTA

Steve Simon, WTA CEO, commented: “Jana was an inspiration both on and off court to anyone who had the opportunity to know her. Her star will always shine brightly in the history of the WTA. Our condolences and our thoughts are with Jana’s family.”

Our condolences. 

Will never forget her tears in centre court – huge shock: Jana Novotna: Former Wimbledon champion dies at age of 49 https://t.co/oMayxo61FF

— Nishat Ladha (@NishatL) November 20, 2017