Tennis star of 1960s, Maria Bueno breathes her last
What's the story
Former world number one and 19-time Grand Slam winner, Maria Bueno breathed her last after a long battle with oral cancer. The Brazilian was aged 78 at the time of her death. She is best remembered for victories at the Wimbledon in 1959, 1964, 1965 and 1966. Tennis fraternity is mourning her demise.
Tennis queen
Maria Bueno loses her battle with cancer
Maria Bueno was rushed to a hospital in Brazil's Sao Paulo after her condition deteriorated on Tuesday. Her medical condition was spotted by the doctors a year before but it had spread rapidly after she reportedly refused chemotherapy. The hospital sent out a statement on Friday stating that she was no more.
Elegant style
Bueno was one of the most stylish players
Bueno was nicknamed the 'The Tennis Ballerina' because of her elegant style of play. She won seven singles titles, eleven doubles and one in mixed doubles during her career that spanned between 1959 and 1966. Maria was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1978 for her immense contribution to the sport.
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Tennis fraternity pays tribute to the legend
Tonight we remember a graceful and accomplished champion who leaves a lasting legacy of inspiration to generations of players in her native Brazil and beyond.
— Tennis Hall of Fame (@TennisHalloFame) June 9, 2018
Our condolences to the family, friends, and many fans of Hall of Famer Maria Esther Bueno. pic.twitter.com/T2OPDv1bWT
Day of mourning
South America's greatest tennis star is no more
Born in Sao Paulo in 1939, Maria is South America's most successful female tennis player. She is the first South American woman to win the Wimbledon singles title. Maria retired from the sport in 1977, 19 years after she won her first grand slam title. Post her retirement, she turned to TV commentary.
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Maria's former teammate pays her tribute
Rest in Peace, Maria Bueno. pic.twitter.com/fp2nqAE2Ii
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) June 9, 2018