23Yr-old Russian tennis star dies of heart failure

Violetta Degtiareva, 23 was touted to be the next big thing in Russian tennis but she met an early exit during training.

The beautiful young was viewed as the next Anna Kournikova for her beauty and charm.

Friends and family have sent in their tributes, expressing shock at the tragedy.

''I can hardly believe it. Rest in peace,'' friend and fellow tennis player, Anastasia Vdovenco said.