The former World No. 1 women’s singles tennis player Chris Evert is set to miss the Australian Open 2024 as an analyst after she was diagnosed with a recurrence of ovarian cancer. On Friday, December 8, the 68-year-old revealed that she has started another round of chemotherapy as treatment in her bid to return for the remaining Grand Slams.
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Chris Evert, who hails from the USA, had an illustrious career in tennis, winning 18 Grand Slam singles titles, which led to her induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, in the year 1995. After her playing days were over, she opened the Evert Tennis Academy with her brother in Boca Raton, apart from contributing to the tennis magazine and joining ESPN as a tennis commentator for the Grand Slam tournaments.
In her statement about the recent bout with ovarian cancer, Chris Evert said, “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.”
Early detection of cancer saves lives, says Chris Evert
Chris Evert was diagnosed with an early stage of ovarian cancer in December 2021 after she scheduled a preventative hysterectomy following the death of her sister from ovarian cancer at the age of 62 in the year 2020. She spoke about how early detection is necessary to treat cancer and said, “I encourage everyone to know your family history and advocate for yourself.” “Early detection saves lives. Be thankful for your health this holiday season,” the American tennis legend added.