Olympics tennis: Elena Baltacha savours career 'pinnacle'

Great Britain's Elena Baltacha has described competing at London 2012 as the "pinnacle" of her career.

The 28-year-old is now facing six months out of the game to have ankle surgery - and has indicated that she could decide to retire.

"It was so special to represent my country at the Olympics. It was something I wanted to do for such a long time," she told BBC Radio Suffolk.

"To be given that opportunity just meant so much to me."

Baltacha lost 6-4 7-6 (7-5) to Ana Ivanovic on Tuesday in the second round of the Olympic singles competition at Wimbledon, and also went out of the doubles with partner Anne Keothavong.

Her father Sergei won a bronze medal playing football for the USSR at the Moscow Olympics in 1980.

And she admitted that uncertainty over whether she would get a chance to take part in the Games had resulted in a "worrying few months" at the start of the year.

The loss of both her British number one status and ranking points earned 12 months previously meant she had to rely on a wildcard to make the team.

"I found out during Wimbledon after my first round match that I'd got in and all the tears came out then," added Baltacha.

"The Olympics just meant so much to me and just to experience that was incredible.

"It was everything and more that I could have wished for, to be honest."

Baltacha said playing an Olympic tournament at the All England Club, which insists on a predominantly white dress code during Wimbledon fortnight, had been an unusual experience.

"When I came in the first day at Wimbledon and saw all the pink and purple and everyone walking around in the colours and stuff, I did think 'wow, this is a little bit strange'," she added.

"It's got a very different feel to it, but I'm really glad the tennis side of the Olympics was held there because it's such a special site and to be back there after the championships, it was just lovely to be part of it."