Kolkata, Sep 19 (IANS) Swiss tennis star Martina Hingis spent time Tuesday with the Sisters of the Missionaries of Charity saying it was "important and inspirational".

"The experiences of visiting the Mother Teresa's house was a lingering moment that I will carry in my heart forever. Yes, the visit was very important and an inspirational experience," said Hingis after spending about an hour at the Missionaries of Charity.

"People can hardly emulate the things she had done. She had a vision and goal that people should try to achieve. It's so difficult to live a life like her and attain whatever she got. If my game and my smile helps people in someway I shall remain thankful."

Hingis donated $20,000 to the house. She was accompanied by her mother Melany, doubles partner Liezel Huber, fellow players Tamarine Tanasugarn and Melinda Czink, Swetha Bhupathi of Globosports and a few ITC officials.

She also went to Sishu Bhavan to interact with the nuns and the orphaned inmates.

"This is the place Hingis always wanted to visit and felt at peace with herself after visiting it," Swetha said.