Chris Evert's cancer returns, forcing Wimbledon absence
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- Chris Evert said on June 25 that her ovarian cancer has returned, prompting her to skip Wimbledon and step back from professional commitments for several months.
- Evert, 71, has already had surgery as 'the first step in my treatment and recovery' and will begin chemotherapy in the coming weeks.
- The 18-time Grand Slam singles champion was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in December 2021 and publicly revealed an earlier recurrence in December 2023.
- ESPN executive vice president of production Mike McQuade said the network 'will certainly miss her at Wimbledon' and looks forward to her return whenever she is ready.
- Evert told fans she is 'deeply grateful' to her medical team, family and supporters, adding: 'Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle.'
Why it matters: Evert's third ovarian cancer battle — nearly five years after her initial 2021 diagnosis and following a 2023 recurrence — highlights the disease's chronic, recurring nature. Her absence also pulls one of ESPN's most recognizable tennis voices from its Wimbledon broadcast team during the sport's marquee fortnight.
