American tennis legend Chris Evert, who was diagnosed with stage 1C ovarian cancer in January 2022, announced on Friday that her cancer has returned, forcing her to temporarily step away from her broadcasting duties at ESPN. In a statement released through the network, Evert revealed that a PET CT scan showed the presence of cancer cells in her pelvic region, leading her to undergo another round of robotic surgery. Fortunately, all the cancer cells were successfully removed, but she will now undergo chemotherapy as part of her treatment.
Evert, a former No. 1 in the WTA rankings and winner of 18 Grand Slam tournaments, including seven French Opens and six US Opens, expressed gratitude that the cancer recurrence was caught early. She acknowledged the support she has received from fans and vowed to keep them updated on her progress. Evert's dedication to raising awareness about ovarian cancer was evident in her statement, as she encouraged everyone to understand their family history and be proactive in advocating for their own health. She also emphasized the importance of early detection, emphasizing that it saves lives.
In her op-ed for ESPN in January 2023, Evert had proclaimed herself “cancer-free” and expressed optimism about the future, stating that there was a 90% chance the cancer would never return. However, her recent diagnosis underscores the unpredictable nature of the disease. Evert's sister, Jeanne Evert Dubin, tragically lost her life to ovarian cancer in February 2020 at the age of 62.
Evert's absence from the Australian Open, which begins next month, will undoubtedly be felt by viewers and fans around the world. Having joined ESPN as an analyst in 2011, Evert has become a familiar face and trusted voice in the world of tennis broadcasting. While she will be unable to join her colleagues for the tournament, she expressed determination to return for the remainder of the Grand Slam season.
Ovarian cancer is a serious and often deadly disease, affecting thousands of women each year in the United States alone. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 18,500 women were diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2020, with more than 13,400 losing their lives to the disease. The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, and having a family history of the disease also raises one's risk, according to the Mayo Clinic.
As Evert focuses on her treatment and recovery, the tennis community and fans worldwide will undoubtedly rally around her, offering their support and well wishes. Her courage and openness about her journey with cancer continue to inspire others to prioritize their health and advocate for themselves. Evert's determination to return to the sport she loves and continue making a difference in the world of tennis is a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit.
