Tennis legend Chris Evert has announced she is stepping away from the sport after confirming her cancer has returned.
The 68-year-old, who won 18 Grand Slam singles titles, was diagnosed with the disease in December 2021, shortly after her sister Jeanie died of ovarian cancer. She completed chemotherapy and doctors told her there was a 90% the cancer wouldn't return as they'd caught it early.
However, Evert has now confirmed she'll need further treatment, and said in a statement that she'll be stepping back from her broadcasting duties with ESPN as a result. "Since I was first diagnosed with cancer two years ago, I’ve been very open about my experience," she said.
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"I wanted to give all of you an update. My cancer is back. While this is a diagnosis I never wanted to hear, I once again feel fortunate that it was caught early. Based on a PET CT scan, I underwent another robotic surgery this past week. Doctors found cancer cells in the same pelvic region.
"All cells were removed, and I have begun another round of chemotherapy. I will be unable to join my colleagues when ESPN makes its return to Melbourne for the Australian Open next month. But I’ll be ready for the rest of the Grand Slam season! I encourage everyone to know your family history and advocate for yourself. Early detection saves lives. Be thankful for your health this holiday season."
Only four women have more Grand Slam singles titles than Evert; Margaret Court, Serena Williams, Steffi Graf and Helen Wills Moody. She won her first major, the French Open, in 1974 and would go on to win the tournament a further six times.
She also won Wimbledon three times, the US Open six times and the Australian Open twice. Evert was world No. 1 for five years between 1974 and 1979, and again between 1980 and 1981. She retired from the sport in 1989, and opened a tennis academy with her brother John.
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In 2011 she turned to broadcasting and was hired by ESPN as a commentator. The American has held the position ever since, but has also expanded into presenting roles.
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