Tennis icon Chris Evert has announced her re-diagnosis with cancer, affecting her involvement in ESPN’s coverage of the 2024 Australian Open. The news comes just two years after Evert’s initial battle with stage 1 ovarian cancer. Despite the recurrence, Evert maintains resilience and emphasizes the importance of early detection. A PET CT scan uncovered cancer cells in the same pelvic region, prompting another robotic surgery and chemotherapy. Evert’s journey in tennis has been extraordinary, with her record seven French Open titles and six US Open titles. She also made history by becoming the first female athlete to host “Saturday Night Live” in 1989 and was elected into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1995. Evert’s younger sister, former professional tennis player Jeanne Evert Dubin, succumbed to ovarian cancer in 2020. As she faces cancer for the second time, she urges everyone to be vigilant about their health and advocate for themselves. The tennis community and fans worldwide stand in solidarity with Evert as she battles this formidable opponent for the second time.
A Familiar Foe Returns
Evert, renowned for her remarkable career boasting 18 grand slam singles titles and three grand slam doubles titles, revealed the distressing news on Friday. “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,” she stated in a poignant message.
Despite the recurrence, Evert maintains an admirable level of resilience, emphasizing the importance of early detection. Having completed her initial treatment in May 2022, Evert shared that a recent PET CT scan uncovered cancer cells in the same pelvic region. Promptly, she underwent another robotic surgery, successfully removing all identified cells. The veteran player has embarked on a new round of chemotherapy as part of her battle against the disease.
A Grand Slam Champion’s Second Bout
Chris Evert’s journey in tennis has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 1954, she etched her name in history as one of the sport’s greatest players. Winning a record seven French Open titles and six US Open titles, Evert’s prowess on the court was unmatched. Her achievements include being the first player to achieve 1,000 singles victories and the first female athlete to surpass $1 million in career prize money.
A defining moment in Evert’s early career was at the age of 15 when she defeated the then No. 1-ranked player, Margaret Court, in a tournament in Charlotte, North Carolina. Evert’s groundbreaking feats continued as she secured a total of 157 singles titles and held the year-end world No. 1 ranking for an astounding seven years: 1974 through 1978, 1980, and 1981.
Off the Court Contributions and Personal Loss
Beyond her on-court achievements, Chris Evert made history by becoming the first female athlete to host “Saturday Night Live” in 1989, the same year she retired from professional play. Six years later, in 1995, Evert received the ultimate acknowledgment as she was unanimously elected into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
The tennis legend’s contributions extended to the commentary box and analyst’s chair when she joined ESPN in 2011. Despite her ongoing health battle, Evert’s commitment to the sport remains unwavering.
Tragically, Evert’s younger sister, former professional tennis player Jeanne Evert Dubin, succumbed to ovarian cancer in 2020 at the age of 62. The family history of the disease adds a poignant layer to Evert’s current struggle, reinforcing the importance of awareness and proactive health advocacy.
A Call for Vigilance and Gratitude
As Chris Evert faces cancer for the second time, she urges everyone to be vigilant about their health. “I encourage everyone to know your family history and advocate for yourself. Early detection saves lives. Be thankful for your health this holiday season,” she implores. The tennis community, fans, and well-wishers worldwide stand in solidarity with Evert as she embarks on this challenging journey once again.
A Future Beyond Melbourne
While Evert regrets missing ESPN’s coverage of the 2024 Australian Open, her determination to return for the rest of the Grand Slam season underscores her indomitable spirit. Her absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the tennis world eagerly awaits her triumphant return to the commentator’s booth and analyst’s chair.
In the face of adversity, Chris Evert continues to inspire with her courage, resilience, and commitment to raising awareness about cancer. As she battles this formidable opponent for the second time, the tennis community and fans alike extend their heartfelt support to one of the sport’s true legends.
