Chris Evert confirms ovarian cancer return and withdraws from Wimbledon
Eighteen-time Grand Slam singles champion Chris Evert has confirmed her ovarian cancer has returned and will miss Wimbledon to undergo chemotherapy.
The 71-year-old American released a statement on Thursday detailing her diagnosis after undergoing recent CT and PET scans.
The former world number one has already undergone surgery as an initial step in her recovery and will step back from all professional commitments over the coming months.
‘Optimistic and determined’
Evert described the illness as relentless but insisted she remains positive as she prepares to begin her medical treatment.
“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.”
The three-time All England Club champion will consequently miss her punditry duties at the upcoming grass-court major in London.
Previous health battles and support
The tennis icon was first diagnosed with the disease in 2022 following a preventive hysterectomy, which was prompted by the death of her sister Jeanne from the same illness.
Doctors initially believed the cancer would not return as it was caught early, but the Florida native experienced a recurrence in 2023 before seemingly overcoming it again earlier this year.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, the Hall of Famer claimed 157 singles titles during a dominant career before retiring in 1989.
Fellow tennis greats have rallied behind the legendary competitor following her latest health update.
Eighteen-time Grand Slam singles champion Martina Navratilova expressed her unwavering support on social media.
“My friend Chrissie is a champion of champions and as such she will slay this monster again.”
Multiple-time major winner Stan Wawrinka, alongside active players Donna Vekic and Ajla Tomljanovic, also sent messages of encouragement to the American.
