Former Wimbledon champion Jana Novotna dies aged 49

Former Wimbledon champion Jana Novotna has died aged 49 after a battle with cancer. 

The former world No.2 died yesterday in her native Czech Republic surrounded by her family, the WTA announced today. 

Novotna won the 1998 Wimbledon singles title, defeating France's Nathalie Tauziat in the final. 

She also carved out a successful doubles career, winning a further 12 grand slams in doubles and four in mixed doubles.

Novotna was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2005.

"Jana was an inspiration both on and off court to anyone who had the opportunity to know her," WTA CEO Steve Simon said.

"Her star will always shine brightly in the history of the WTA. Our condolences and our thoughts are with Jana's family."