Chris Evert diagnosed with cancer for third time

Chris Evert will not be attending Wimbledon this year after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer for a third time.

The three-time women’s singles champion at SW19 revealed the news on social media, saying that “cancer is relentless”.

The 71-year-old American, who has been a longstanding voice on the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage, told fans she would be missing this year’s Championships, which get underway on Monday.

The news comes a day before a documentary is released on Netflix charting her and Martina Navratilova’s experiences with cancer.

Evert was first diagnosed with the disease in 2021 and underwent a double mastectomy the following year after finding out that she carried the BRCA gene, which can increase the risk of developing certain cancers, including breast cancer.

Evert’s cancer returned in 2023, the same year that Navratilova, 69, was diagnosed with throat and breast cancer. The pair, who were rivals in the 1970s and 80s, discuss their cancer journeys in Chris & Martina: The Final Set, which is released on Friday, as well as their decades-long friendship as two greats of tennis.

Despite being foes in their playing days, the pair became friends in retirement and leaned on each other for support as they navigated their respective cancer diagnoses, which is chronicled in the film.

They both later said they were in remission, but now Evert’s cancer is back for a third time.

Evert confirmed she would be stepping back from her broadcasting duties over the coming months.

“I have always believed in being open and honest about my health journey,” Evert said. “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 secured legendary status within the women’s game after winning seven French Open titles, six US Opens and two Australian Opens, as well as her three titles at Wimbledon. She married British tennis player John Lloyd in 1979, but the couple divorced in 1987.

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