Yesterday the nation of Brazil and the tennis world were saddened to learn of the passing of Brazilian tennis star Maria Esther Bueno (October 11, 1939 – June 8, 2018).

Ms. Bueno is known as the greatest female South American tennis player, having won 19 major titles in her 11-year career.

Brazil’s President, Michel Temer, tweeted out this tribute:

Com pesar recebemos a notícia da morte da tenista Maria Esther Bueno. Ídolo do esporte brasileiro, ficou conhecida como bailarina pela leveza e elegância nas quadras. Será sempre lembrada como a nº 1 do tênis no coração de todos os brasileiros.

— Michel Temer (@MichelTemer) 8 de junho de 2018

Translation: “With sadness we have received the news of the death of tennis player Maria Esther Bueno. An idol of Brazilian sports, she was known as the ballerina for her lightness and elegance on the court. She will always be remember as number one in tennis in the hearts of all Brazilians.”

Here is the Brazilian TV report of her passing:

And here is some footage of her playing at the Wimbledon: