Tennis legend Chris Evert reveals ovarian cancer diagnosis
Tennis legend Chris Evert has revealed that she has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
The 18-time grand slam champion had preventive hysterectomy after medical professionals told her she was at risk of cancer.
However, she was later diagnosed with ovarian cancer in December and has since undergone chemotherapy.
The 67-year-old, who has had six rounds of chemotherapy, says she is incredibly fortunate that the cancer was caught before it spread.
“I am so lucky,” she told ESPN, where she works as a pundit.
“I have some challenges ahead of me. But, I have comfort in knowing the chemotherapy is to ensure that cancer does not come back.”
Her younger sister Jeane died of the same disease two years ago.
Evert was advised by medical professionals in October to have blood tests.
The tests showed she had a pathogenic variant of a gene that put her at greater risk of developing cancer.
This led to the hysterectomy and the eventual discovery of a tumour.
She said of her late sister: “When I go into chemo, she is my inspiration. I’ll be thinking of her. And she’ll get me through it.”
The famous athlete received a flood of well-wishes on social media.
Her long-time rival and friend Martina Navratilova wrote: “We are all with you and behind you Chrissie, you are a true champion and I have no doubt you will conquer this nasty opponent with nary a sweat!”
American tennis player Madison Keys wrote: ““So glad you’re doing ok now @ChrissieEvert! Sending you lots of love.”
Britain’s former world number 27 Laura Robson tweeted: “Wishing you all the best for a speedy recovery. Good luck Chrissie!”
