Chris Evert Reveals Ovarian Cancer Has Returned for the Third Time
Tennis icon Chris Evert has announced her ovarian cancer has returned for a third time, vowing to fight with optimism while stepping back from professional commitments.
Chris Evert Confirms Third Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis
Tennis icon Chris Evert has delivered the sobering news that her ovarian cancer has made yet another return, marking the third time the 71-year-old American legend has faced the disease since her initial diagnosis in December 2021.
In a heartfelt message shared with her followers on Instagram, Evert revealed that recent CT and PET scans confirmed the unwelcome news, but made clear she intends to approach this new chapter of her health battle with the same determination that defined her legendary playing career.
Evert Shares Candid Health Update
"I have always believed in being open and honest about my health journey," Evert wrote in her post. "This past weekend, after undergoing CT and PET scans, I learned that my ovarian cancer has returned."
The former world number one wasted no time in taking action, already undergoing surgery as the first phase of her treatment plan, with chemotherapy sessions expected to begin in the coming weeks.
"Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle," she added, striking a tone of quiet resilience that has long been her trademark.
Wimbledon Appearance Cancelled
As a direct result of her diagnosis and treatment schedule, Evert confirmed she will be absent from Wimbledon this year — a tournament where she claimed three singles titles during her illustrious playing career. She had been set to serve as a tennis analyst for American sports broadcaster ESPN at the event.
ESPN executive vice president of production, Mike McQuade, responded warmly to the news, expressing the network's full support for their long-time colleague.
"Our thoughts are with our ESPN tennis colleague Chris Evert as she deals with this personal health issue," McQuade said. "We will certainly miss her at Wimbledon and wish her all the best. We look forward to having her back with us whenever she feels ready to return."
A Champion On and Off the Court
Evert's career achievements remain staggering by any measure. Over the course of her professional career, she captured 18 Grand Slam singles titles, including three Wimbledon crowns, before retiring in 1989. In the Open era, only Serena Williams with 23 majors and Steffi Graf with 22 have surpassed her tally in the women's game.
Since stepping away from competitive tennis, Evert has become a respected and familiar voice in broadcasting, regularly appearing as a pundit for the BBC and various other networks.
Support Pours In from the Tennis World
Perhaps the most moving response came from her long-time rival and close friend, Martina Navratilova, who offered a powerful message of solidarity.
"My friend Chrissie is a champion of champions and as such she will slay this monster again," Navratilova said. "We are all pulling for you, and know you will come out on the other side cancer free again."
Evert closed her statement on an uplifting note, expressing deep gratitude to her medical team, loved ones, and the wider public for their outpouring of support, and signalled her intention to return once her health permits.
"I am deeply grateful to my medical team, my family, friends, and everyone who has reached out with kindness and encouragement," she wrote. "I look forward to seeing everyone again soon."
