GALA LONDON FUNDRAISING EVENT WITH MARION BARTOLI, 2013 WIMBLEDON CHAMPION.
Posted 4th Jul
News and Stories by Nino Severino
Marion Bartoli, the celebrated French tennis star, has long captivated the tennis world with her fearless playing style and
unyielding determination. Winner of the 2013 Wimbledon Championships, Marion’s journey to the top of the sport was marked
by her relentless work ethic, mental toughness, and unique two-handed technique on both forehand and backhand. Beyond
her Grand Slam triumph, she reached two Grand Slam finals and achieved a career-high ranking of world No. 7. Admired
for her tenacity, resilience, and sportsmanship, Marion has inspired countless fans and players alike, leaving a lasting
legacy both on and off the court.
On the 3rd of July, The Harley Lounge in London was filled with warmth, energy, and generosity as the Elena Baltacha Foundation
hosted a sell-out fundraising event. Friends, supporters, and sponsors of the foundation gathered to celebrate Elena’s
enduring legacy and to contribute to the foundation’s ongoing work in supporting young athletes. The atmosphere was electric,
full of laughter, conversation, and shared memories of Elena’s remarkable life and achievements. Guests were treated
to an evening of heartfelt stories, meaningful connections, and an inspiring reminder of the power of community in championing
the values Elena held dear.
Nino Severino, Chairman of the Elena Baltacha Foundation, shares a close and heartfelt friendship with Marion Bartoli, stemming
from the deep bond Marion had with Elena on the WTA Tour. Nino warmly welcomed Marion upon her arrival at the London
event, their connection reflecting mutual respect, admiration, and a shared commitment to honouring Elena’s legacy through
the foundation’s ongoing work supporting young athletes.
The event was proudly sponsored by Perspectum, a world-leading company at the forefront of medical imaging technology. Perspectum’s
innovative CoverScan platform is revolutionising liver disease diagnosis, offering precise, non-invasive assessments that
help clinicians deliver timely and personalised care. Recognised for its cutting-edge research and technological expertise,
Perspectum continues to set the standard in the field of advanced imaging, combining scientific excellence with patient-centred
solutions. Their commitment to improving healthcare outcomes aligns seamlessly with the Elena Baltacha Foundation’s mission
to empower young athletes and support communities, making them an invaluable partner for the foundation event. Banjo Fletcher,
CEO of Perspectum, attended the event and gave an inspiring talk, highlighting Perspectum’s commitment to liver health while
warmly engaging with guests and showing strong support for the Elena Baltacha Foundation.
Another key supporter of the evening was the Global Liver Institute (GLI), an internationally recognised organisation dedicated
to advancing liver health through advocacy, research, and education. GLI works tirelessly across the globe to raise awareness
about liver disease, provide guidance to healthcare professionals, and support patients and families affected by liver conditions.
Their initiatives span from policy advocacy to community outreach programs, making a tangible difference in people’s lives
worldwide. Through their partnership with the Elena Baltacha Foundation, GLI demonstrates the profound impact of collaborative
efforts in promoting health, wellbeing, and hope for those in need.
The WTA Foundation’s support was celebrated during the evening, with guests acknowledging their vital role in empowering young athletes, fostering talent, and honouring Elena Baltacha’s legacy, highlighting the shared commitment to health, mentorship, and the future of tennis.
Elena’s life was tragically cut short by liver cancer, a loss felt deeply across the tennis and sporting community. This poignant story, combined with the invaluable support of Perspectum and the GLI, will now help deliver vital education about liver health to teenagers participating in the foundation’s programmes and events.
The highlight of the evening arrived with the arrival of Marion Bartoli herself, fresh from commentary duties at Wimbledon, where she had covered the thrilling Sinner match. Guests were visibly elated to see Marion, whose presence brought excitement and admiration into the room. Taking a moment to speak from the heart, Marion shared her deeply personal connection to Elena Baltacha, reflecting on their friendship, mutual respect, and shared love for tennis. She expressed her unwavering commitment to keeping Elena’s legacy alive, inspiring everyone in attendance to continue supporting the foundation’s mission.
Throughout the evening, Marion was approachable, warm, and engaging, taking time to meet each guest personally. She shared stories, posed for photographs, and listened attentively to conversations, creating an atmosphere of genuine connection and camaraderie. Her presence underscored the spirit of the event, celebrating Elena’s life, raising vital funds, and fostering a community united by compassion, sport, and shared purpose.
The 3rd of July fundraising evening was not just a celebration of Elena Baltacha’s remarkable life, but also a testament to the enduring impact of those who dedicate themselves to others. Thanks to the generosity of attendees and the support of Perspectum and the Global Liver Institute, the foundation is able to continue providing vital opportunities, mentorship, and resources to young athletes across the UK. The event served as a heartfelt reminder of Elena’s values: courage, perseverance, and the importance of nurturing potential, leaving all who attended inspired and connected to a meaningful cause.
In a room filled with laughter, shared memories, and heartfelt stories, the Elena Baltacha Foundation’s fundraising event achieved more than just its goals, it reinforced a legacy, strengthened a community, and celebrated the enduring power of friendship, passion, and giving back. With champions like Marion Bartoli, innovative partners like Perspectum, and dedicated organisations such as GLI, Elena’s spirit continues to inspire and uplift the lives of many, ensuring that her name and impact will never be forgotten.
