In the world of sports, iconic legends have not only triumphed on the court but also battled with life’s unforeseen challenges. One such icon, Chris Evert, a winner of 18 Grand Slam singles titles, is currently facing a recurrence of cancer, bravely navigating through a journey that began with a diagnosis in December 2021.
Chris Evert, the Hall of Fame awardee, is facing a recurrence of cancer after two years, as revealed in a statement released through ESPN. Diagnosed with an early stage of ovarian cancer in December 2021, Evert, 68, recently underwent a series of preventive health checkups that detected cancer cells in the same pelvic region.
Chris Evert says her cancer is back.
Keep her in your thoughts & prayers.
“Since I was first diagnosed with cancer two years ago, I’ve been very open about my experience. I wanted to give all of you an update. My cancer is back. While this is a diagnosis I never wanted to… pic.twitter.com/5ygA2GgJhK
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) December 8, 2023
In response, she has begun another round of chemotherapy after the removal of all identified cells through robotic surgery. Temporarily stepping away from her ESPN duties for treatment, Evert expressed gratitude for the early detection, stating, “While this is a diagnosis I never wanted to hear, I once again feel fortunate that it was caught early.”
She further conveyed that she would be unable to join her colleagues when ESPN makes its return to Melbourne for the 2024 Australian Open next month. However, she was hopeful that she would be ready for the rest of the Grand Slam season.
Chris Evert’s tryst with cancer
Chris Evert, the illustrious figure in the tennis world, confronted her first challenge with the disease in 2021 when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the same type that claimed her sister Jeanne’s life. Two years after Jeanne’s passing, Chris Evert was referred for genetic testing by her sister’s oncologist in December 2021.
It was discovered that she carried the BRCA1 variant. This elevated her risk for ovarian and breast cancers. On further diagnosis, it was found that she had cancer in her pelvic region. Following a total hysterectomy and the removal of fallopian tubes and ovaries, Chris underwent successful robotic-assisted surgery and six rounds of chemotherapy. In 2022, the medical assessment confirmed that she had been cured of cancer.
Evert’s appeal after her sister’s lost battle with ovarian cancer
Chris Evert’s sister, Jeanne Evert Dubin, unfortunately, succumbed to ovarian cancer in February 2020 at the age of 62. Chris Evert has been advocating for awareness, urging everyone to understand their family history and undergo genetic testing. In her statement, she profoundly expresses, “Early detection saves lives. Be thankful for your health this holiday season.”
Evert has been grateful for the early detection and treatment of her disease. Chris Evert’s journey with cancer, marked by resilience and early intervention, serves as an inspiration for many. In facing cancer with courage, Chris Evert stands not only as a tennis icon but also as a beacon of hope for many facing this ailment.