Ipswich-based Elena Baltacha has exited the ladies’ singles competition at Wimbledon, at the first round stage.

The 29-year-old, making her 12th appearance at the All England Club, lost 6-4, 6-1 to Italy’s Flavia Pennetta this morning.

Baltacha had gone into the tournament in good form, having recently won the AEGON Nottingham Challenge, but had little chance against the experienced Italian who used her backhand winner to good effect.