Chris Evert, the former Wimbledon champion said that her ovarian cancer has returned for the third time. She was first diagnosed with cancer in December 2021.
The 71-year-old has won three Wimbledons, and a total of 18 Grand Slams. Evert has been a regular television pundit for the BBC and other broadcasters since her retirement in 1989.
On Instagram, she wrote, “I have always believed in being open and honest about my health journey.”
“This past weekend, after undergoing CT and PET scans, I learned that my ovarian cancer has returned. I have already undergone surgery as the first step in my treatment and recovery, and will begin chemotherapy in the coming weeks.”
“Because of this, I will not be attending Wimbledon this year, and I will step back from my professional commitments over the next few months to focus on my health. Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle.”
“I am deeply grateful to my medical team, my family, friends, and everyone who has reached out with kindness and encouragement. I look forward to seeing everyone again soon.”
Evert is only behind Serena Williams (23) and Steffi Graf (22) who have won more titles in the women’s game in the Open era than her.
Evert was supposed to cover for ESPN this season. ESPN executive vice president, production, Mike McQuade said, “Our thoughts are with our ESPN tennis colleague Chris Evert as she deals with this personal health issue. 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.”
Long-time friend and rival, Martina Navratilova said, “My friend Chrissie is a champion of champions and as such she will slay this monster again. We are all pulling for you, and know you will come out on the other side cancer-free again.”
