--- title: "Chris Evert reveals third ovarian cancer recurrence, steps back from Wimbledon broadcasts" description: "18-time Grand Slam winner Chris Evert, 71, discloses aggressive cancer’s return after scans, vows surgery and chemo while pausing her iconic Wimbledon commentary role." url: https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/tennis-legend-evert-says-relentless-cancer-has-returned-fd2065f3 published: 2026-06-30T11:08:02.834+00:00 updated: 2026-06-30T11:08:02.834+00:00 author: "Kostadin Stamboliev" publisher: "Pineido" site: "Sportopod" language: en topics: ["tennis"] --- # Chris Evert reveals third ovarian cancer recurrence, steps back from Wimbledon broadcasts > 18-time Grand Slam winner Chris Evert, 71, discloses aggressive cancer’s return after scans, vows surgery and chemo while pausing her iconic Wimbledon commentary role. Chris Evert, the 18-time Grand Slam singles champion, announced her ovarian cancer has returned for a third time. The 71-year-old American revealed the diagnosis on Instagram after recent scans, stating she will undergo surgery followed by chemotherapy. Evert also stepped back from her broadcasting duties at Wimbledon, a role she has held for years. Evert’s announcement underscores the aggressive nature of ovarian cancer and the relentless challenges she continues to face. Diagnosed initially in 2022, this recurrence marks the third time the disease has returned, highlighting the persistent and unforgiving nature of the illness. She expressed gratitude to her medical team, family, and fans in her post, emphasizing the support that has sustained her through each phase of treatment. The news has drawn swift and heartfelt reactions from the tennis community. Martina Navratilova, a longtime rival and friend, shared her support, calling Evert’s resilience an inspiration. Navratilova’s message reflects the widespread admiration for Evert’s courage and the impact she has had both on and off the court. Evert’s commentary has been a mainstay of Wimbledon coverage for years, offering nuanced analysis that blends historical perspective with real‑time insight. Her absence creates a noticeable gap in the broadcast booth, prompting organizers to consider former players or seasoned journalists who can match her depth of knowledge and calm delivery. Beyond the microphone, Evert’s openness about her third recurrence shines a spotlight on ovarian cancer, a disease that often remains hidden until advanced stages. By sharing her journey publicly, she amplifies awareness, encouraging early detection and supporting research funding—a vital contribution that extends far beyond the tennis world. Ovarian cancer’s high recurrence rate—up to 80% in some subtypes—makes Evert’s case particularly sobering. Studies show that even after aggressive initial treatment, many patients face repeated relapses, often within two years. Evert’s willingness to confront this reality head‑on disrupts the silence that typically surrounds such setbacks, forcing public discourse on the gaps in post‑treatment care and the need for more targeted therapies. Her public disclosure also arrives at a moment when women’s health advocacy is gaining unprecedented traction. High‑profile figures like ovarian cancer survivor and former Senator Kelly Loeffler have amplified calls for better screening protocols and research funding. Evert’s platform amplifies these efforts, turning her personal struggle into a catalyst for systemic change in how society addresses women’s cancers. What’s next: Evert will focus on her treatment, prioritizing surgery and chemotherapy to address the recurrence. Her temporary absence from Wimbledon broadcasting creates a void in the coverage, leaving fans to anticipate who might step in to fill the gap during this year’s tournament. ## Why this matters Evert’s battle with ovarian cancer transcends sport, shining a light on the realities of a disease that remains stubbornly difficult to eradicate. Her openness fosters awareness and empathy, while her enduring spirit serves as a beacon for others facing similar health challenges. On the court, her absence from Wimbledon broadcasts temporarily diminishes the depth of expert analysis, underscoring the irreplaceable role she has played in tennis commentary for decades. By confronting ovarian cancer’s recurrence publicly, she forces a reckoning with the gaps in post‑treatment care and the urgent need for more targeted therapies, turning personal adversity into a platform for systemic change in women’s health advocacy. ## Frequently asked ### How many times has Chris Evert been diagnosed with ovarian cancer? Chris Evert has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer three times. Her first diagnosis was in 2022, followed by recurrences in subsequent years. ### What treatments will Chris Evert undergo for her cancer recurrence? Evert will undergo surgery followed by chemotherapy to address the third recurrence of her ovarian cancer, as outlined in her public announcement. ### Why is Chris Evert stepping back from Wimbledon broadcasting? Evert is pausing her Wimbledon broadcasting duties to focus on her treatment for ovarian cancer, prioritizing surgery and chemotherapy during this period. ### Who reacted to Chris Evert’s announcement? Martina Navratilova, a former rival and close friend, publicly supported Evert, praising her resilience and calling her an inspiration in the face of her health battle. ### How many Grand Slam titles did Chris Evert win? Chris Evert won 18 Grand Slam singles titles during her illustrious tennis career, cementing her legacy as one of the sport’s greatest champions. ### What is the recurrence rate for ovarian cancer patients like Evert? Ovarian cancer has a high recurrence rate, with up to 80% of patients experiencing a relapse in some subtypes, often within two years of initial treatment. ## Sources & Citations - [Tennis legend Evert says 'relentless' cancer has returned - BBC](https://www.bbc.com/sport/tennis/articles/c0myx8lr1mpo) — NewsAPI.org (2026-06-25) --- Cite: Chris Evert reveals third ovarian cancer recurrence, steps back from Wimbledon broadcasts. Sportopod, 2026-06-30. https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/tennis-legend-evert-says-relentless-cancer-has-returned-fd2065f3