Novotna captured hearts in Britain in 1993 when she featured in one of the most enduring images in the long history of Wimbledon as she was consoled by the royal after losing the 1993 final to Steffi Graf, having seemingly been on course for the title.
She was in floods of tears as she received her runners-up prize and, in a moment of unusual emotion, the Duchess embraced the Czech, telling her: "I know you will win it one day, don't worry."
The Duchess said on the royal family's official Twitter feed: "Jana Novotna was a brave, courageous sweet lady with a wonderful sense of humour.
"I am very saddened by the news of her death and all my feelings are with her family. Wimbledon will not be the same without her."
Novotna's Wimbledon success was her only Grand Slam singles title but she was prolific in the doubles, winning 16 Grand Slams.
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