Chris Evert, on Thursday, announced a recurrence of her battle with ovarian cancer. The 71-year-old, who dominated tennis alongside Martina Navratilova in the middle of the 1970s running into the 1980s, had endured a running battle with ovarian cancer since 2022. The former player, who spent 260 weeks as the World #1 during her career, had already lost a sister to ovarian cancer following a two-year battle.
The 18-time Major champion underwent a preventive hysterectomy after soon discovering she also carried a mutation that put her at risk. Unfortunately, cancer was discovered in her resected fallopian tubes, which meant she had to undergo chemotherapy. She suffered a relapse in December 2023, prompting further treatment to become cancer-free again.
However, in what is more tragic news, the former player, who has remained active in various capacities in the sport, took to Instagram to announce the return of ovarian cancer.
I have always believed in being open and honest about my health journey.
This past weekend,after undergoing CT and PET scans,I learnt 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, everyone who has reached out with kindness and encouragement.I look forward to see everyone again soon.
The news means she will be unable to take part in the upcoming Wimbledon Championships. It comes as a dampener after some initial positive news, as it was announced that another former player, Serena Williams, will be making her singles return at Wimbledon. The main draw kicks off on Monday, June 29. Everyone in the tennis world will be wishing her a speedy recovery. And hopefully she’ll be back soon.
— Chris Evert (@ChrissieEvert) June 25, 2026
Main Photo Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
