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Chris Evert faces third cancer diagnosis
28 Jun
Summary
- Evert has beaten ovarian cancer twice since December 2021.
- Her bond with Martina Navratilova deepened after both faced cancer.
- She continues to promote accessible tennis programs for youth.
Tennis legend Chris Evert announced in June 2026 that she is facing her third diagnosis of ovarian cancer. She had previously beaten the disease twice, first diagnosed in December 2021 and declared cancer-free in January 2023, only for a recurrence to be found in December 2023, leading to another cancer-free declaration in July 2024.
Evert's health journey has brought her even closer to her long-time rival and friend, Martina Navratilova. The deepening of their bond is a central theme in the Netflix documentary "Chris & Martina: The Final Set," which premiered on June 26, 2026. Both athletes have supported each other through their respective cancer battles.
Beyond her personal health, Evert continues her significant contributions to tennis. She co-founded the Evert Tennis Academy in Boca Raton, Florida, in 1996 and partners with the USTA's National Junior Tennis and Learning Network. This initiative aims to provide affordable tennis opportunities for underserved communities, reflecting her belief that every child deserves access to the sport.
Evert, who retired from professional play in 1989, has also maintained a presence in sports media, working as a commentator and analyst for NBC Sports and ESPN. She is also a grandmother to Hayden, born in May 2024.
