Baltacha’s memory lives on thanks to celebrity auction
Funds raised for charity in honour of Buddie tennis ace
The legacy of a much-loved Paisley tennis star will live on as a celebrity memorabilia auction gets underway.
Elena Baltacha, who lived in Paisley as a teenager, sadly died from cancer in 2014, aged just 30.
Bally, as she was affectionately known, was popular in the tennis world and made it her mission before she died to bring the sport she loved to more children.
The Elena Baltacha Foundation is just one of the charities which will benefit from the Love All auction, which has opened for bidding today.
Among the incredible tennis-themed prizes include rackets from Naomi Osaka, Emma Raducanu and Andy and Jamie Murray, an autobiography with a personal message from Billie Jean King, a rare photo of the eight 2018 ATP World Tour Finalists, including Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic and many more.
There are also money-can’t-buy tennis experiences, including centre court tickets and behind the scenes tour of Wimbledon, centre court tickets and a meet and greet with Sue Barker at the 2022 Championships at The Queen’s Club, a two-night stay at Andy Murray’s 5 star Cromlix hotel, which includes dinner in the Chez Roux restaurant and a private tennis lesson with Judy Murray.
Memorabilia and personal items from a host of celebrities, such as Ed Sheeran, The Kooks, Pink Floyd, David Walliams, Anton Du Beke and the legendary Sir Cliff Richard are also up for grabs.
Judy Murray, Love all Ambassador and Elena’s former Federation Cup captain, said: “The generosity and widespread support is truly overwhelming.
“It is so wonderful to see the tennis community uniting in the spirit of love all in memory of Bally, and all those around the world whose lives have been shattered by this terrible disease.
“The auction will not only support vital cancer research, screening and care, but will also continue Elena legacy’s by introducing the sport she loved to those who might not otherwise have the chance to play.”
The auction is open until Sunday, November 21.
To register to bid or to donate, go to loveallauction.com.