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Tennis great Chris Evert has revealed that her ovarian cancer has returned for a third time, forcing her to step away from her broadcasting duties as she begins another round of treatment.
The 71-year-old American, who was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in December 2021, shared the update in a message posted on Instagram. Despite the latest setback, Evert said she remains optimistic and determined to overcome the illness once again.
"I have always believed in being open and honest about my health journey," she wrote.
Evert explained that recent CT and PET scans confirmed the return of the disease. She has already undergone surgery as the initial stage of her treatment and is expected to begin chemotherapy in the coming weeks.
As a result, the three-time Wimbledon champion will not be attending this year's tournament and plans to step back from her professional commitments while focusing on her recovery.
"Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle," Evert said.
She also expressed gratitude to the doctors caring for her, as well as her family, friends and the many supporters who have sent messages of encouragement during the difficult period.
"I look forward to seeing everyone again soon," she added.
Evert is regarded as one of the greatest players in women's tennis history. During her illustrious career, she won 18 Grand Slam singles titles, including three Wimbledon crowns. In the Open Era, only Serena Williams with 23 major singles titles and Steffi Graf with 22 have won more Grand Slam singles championships than Evert.
Since retiring from professional tennis in 1989, Evert has become a respected television analyst, regularly covering major tournaments for broadcasters including the BBC and ESPN.
Tributes and messages of support quickly followed her announcement. Long-time rival and close friend Martina Navratilova expressed confidence that Evert would overcome the illness once again.
"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."
ESPN also offered its support, with executive vice president of production Mike McQuade saying the network's thoughts were with Evert during her treatment.
"We will certainly miss her at Wimbledon and wish her all the best," McQuade said. "We look forward to having her back with us whenever she feels ready to return."
Evert's announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from across the tennis world as she begins another fight against the disease.
