By The Associated Press
Tennis Hall of Famer Chris Evert said Thursday her ovarian cancer has returned and treatment will prevent her from attending Wimbledon this year.
Evert, 71, was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in December 2021. In December 2023 she revealed her cancer had returned.
Born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Evert announced on social media on Thursday she already has had surgery “as the first step in my treatment and recovery” after tests revealed the cancer again had returned. She said she will begin chemotherapy “in the coming weeks.”
“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,” Evert said.
“Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle. 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.”
Evert is an 18-time Grand Slam singles champion and has remained prominent in the sport as an analyst for ESPN.
Evert made a public appearance in Fort Lauderdale in December, when the Holiday Park tennis facilities re-opened after a $9.5 million upgrade. The Jimmy Evert Tennis Center, named after her father and coach, now features a new, 700-seat stadium court, named after Chris Evert.
The Holiday Park courts are where Evert learned the sport and practiced for years on her way to becoming one the the biggest stars in the history of tennis.
Sun Sentinel staff contributed to this report.