Tennis great Chris Evert revealed her ovarian cancer has returned in a devastating post shared Thursday on Instagram.
Evert began disclosing her her third diagnosis by saying she has been committed to being honest and open about her health struggles. The tennis star previously beat the disease in 2021, and again in 2023, according to NBC News.
“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,” the 71-year-old wrote.
“I have already undergone surgery as the first step in my treatment and recovery, and will begin chemotherapy in the coming weeks.”
The 18-time Grand Slam winner explained that she had to prioritize her well-being over tennis. She has worked as an analyst for ESPN.
“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,” she wrote.
NEW YORK – CIRCA 1974: Tennis player Chris Evert of the United States returns a shot during the women 1974 U.S. Open Tennis Tournament at the West Side Tennis Club in the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
Evert addressed her diagnosis with a positive attitude and sheer determination, vowing to make a comeback.
“Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle,” she wrote.
The tennis pro took a moment to thank a number of people for their support, including her family, friends, and the medical personnel who have rallied around her and continue to provide care through her health journey. (RELATED: Paramedics Reportedly Rushed Lionel Richie To Hospital In After Mid-Concert Health Scare)
Fans and loves ones flooded the comment section of her post with messages of love and encouragement, and many sent prayers for a full and speedy recovery.
ESPN executive vice president of production Mike McQuade addressed the news in a statement shared Thursday by the outlet. “Our thoughts are with our ESPN tennis colleague Chris Evert as she deals with this health issue,” he said. “We will certainly miss her at Wimbledon and wish her all the best. We look forward to having her back with us whenver she feels ready to return.”