(June 25, 2026) Tennis Hall of Famer Chris Evert has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer again, for the third time. She made an announcement on social media on Thursday. The 71-year-old, 18-time major singles champion, was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2021. The cancer returned in 2023 and she was cancer-free again in 2024.
Her long-running rivalry and close friendship with Martina Navratilova which includes their shared battles with cancer will be featured in the Netflix documentary, “Chris and Martina – The Final Set, set for release on June 26.
“I have always believed in being open and honest about my health journey,” she began. “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,” she continued. “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,” she ended. “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.”
