Chris Evert Reveals Ovarian Cancer Return, Withdraws From Wimbledon 2026

Tennis icon Chris Evert, an 18-time Grand Slam champion and longtime ESPN analyst, revealed on Thursday that her ovarian cancer has returned and will force her to sit out Wimbledon 2026. Evert, 71, announced on social media that post-surgical tests detected the recurrence; she will begin a new round of chemotherapy “in the coming weeks.” The Hall of Famer first battled stage I ovarian cancer in late 2021, underwent preventive surgery in 2023 after a second diagnosis, and had been cancer-free for roughly 18 months before this latest setback. Why Evert’s news matters now • Wimbledon absence: Evert has anchored ESPN’s coverage of The Championships since 2011. Her withdrawal leaves a noticeable gap in broadcast commentary just as the grass-court major celebrates the centenary of Centre Court’s modern rebuild. • Heightened awareness: Because 70 % of ovarian cancers are detected at an advanced stage, Evert’s openness once again spotlights the importance of early genetic screening—particularly for women with BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations, which she carries. • Tennis storyline: The women’s draw is already without several top players due to injury; Evert’s absence removes a key analyst voice who contextualizes the evolving WTA power dynamic. What happens next Evert said she will “step back from professional commitments over the next few months to focus on my health.” Her treatment regimen is expected to mirror her 2022 protocol of surgery followed by six cycles of chemotherapy. Medical experts note that recurrence within five years is common; however, survival rates improve significantly when the disease is caught early, as in Evert’s case. Support across the sport Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova and current No. 1 Iga Świątek were among the first to send public well-wishes, emphasizing Evert’s resilience both on and off court. Navratilova—herself a cancer survivor—tweeted, “Chrissie has never lost a fifth set and she won’t lose this one either.” Health takeaway Evert urges fans to schedule regular pelvic examinations and discuss family cancer histories with physicians. “Ovarian cancer is relentless,” she wrote, “but I will stay optimistic and determined.” Her message aligns with the American Cancer Society’s recommendation that women over 60, or those with genetic risk factors, undergo annual transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 blood tests. SEO key phrases: Chris Evert ovarian cancer recurrence, Chris Evert Wimbledon 2026 absence, tennis legend health update, ovarian cancer symptoms and screening, ESPN analyst Chris Evert health news.