Chris Evert, the celebrated tennis icon, recently disclosed that her battle with ovarian cancer has resumed following an abnormal CT scan that necessitated exploratory surgery. The 71-year-old shared this distressing news on social media, confirming that she will be embarking on a chemotherapy regime in the coming weeks.
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Evert’s announcement came on June 25 via an emotional Instagram post where she underscored her commitment to transparency regarding her health challenges. “I have always believed in being open and honest about my health journey,” she articulated. The tennis champion revealed that after undergoing CT and PET scans, her ovarian cancer diagnosis had sadly returned.
In light of her health situation, Evert announced that she would be stepping back from her professional engagements, including missing this year’s Wimbledon tournament. “I will step back from my professional commitments over the next few months to focus on my health,” she stated. Evert also expressed her resolve in facing this latest challenge, affirming, “Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle.”
The sporting world has been well aware of Evert’s connection to ovarian cancer, as she first received a stage 1 diagnosis in 2021, shortly after her sister succumbed to the same disease. In 2022, Evert made the proactive decision to undergo a preventive double mastectomy after learning that she carried the BRCA gene.
Earlier this year, the former tennis world number one celebrated a period of remission, only to learn later in 2023 that her cancer had re-emerged. “While this is a diagnosis I never wanted to hear, I once again feel fortunate that it was caught early,” she reflected in December 2023. Evert urged others to be proactive about their health, stating, “I encourage everyone to know your family history and advocate for yourself. Early detection saves lives.”
As part of her journey, Evert is keen on using her platform to raise awareness about ovarian cancer and the importance of early diagnosis. Following her second diagnosis, she opened her life to documentation, allowing cameras to follow her as she attended medical appointments and even filmed intimate moments, including her son shaving her remaining hair after chemotherapy. This footage is showcased in the upcoming documentary featuring Evert and fellow tennis legend Martina Navratilova, titled “Chris & Martina: The Final Set,” which is set to premiere on Netflix on June 26.
In a recent conversation with PEOPLE, Evert discussed her motive for being transparent about her health struggle, acknowledging that such an experience can strip away the glitz and glamour of a life spent on the court. “It humbles you when you’ve had the highest of highs and then you get cancer. It just makes you feel like you’re just like everybody else,” she stated. With sincerity, she added, “This is a terrible disease that anybody can get.”
Evert’s honesty extends beyond her personal experience; she hopes that by sharing her story, she can motivate others to advocate for their health. “Part of the reason why we’re doing this is just to get the word out about genetic testing and about getting your checkups,” she explained. Her message is clear: if you notice any changes in your body, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.
As Chris Evert embarks on this new chapter of her health journey, she remains surrounded by gratitude for her medical team, family, and friends who continue to support her. Her openness about her experiences aims not only to inspire but also to highlight the critical nature of early detection in combating ovarian cancer.
The tennis community and fans worldwide await her return, united in their encouragement and admiration for her unwavering spirit. Evert’s legacy as a champion on the court is matched by her resilience off it, and her journey will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the ongoing conversation regarding women’s health and cancer awareness.