Chris Evert, the retired former world no. 1 WTA player with a record 7 French Open titles and a joint record 6 US Open crowns, is a beacon of hope for people worldwide who struggle with the vicious illness of cancer.
The 68-year-old has been subject to the stress of having to face an uncertain future not once but twice in a year. She has bounced back though, thanks to stellar work from doctors and surgeons and posted a positive update on her condition on social media.
Chris Evert’s second cancer diagnosis prompts well wishes
Chris Evert was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2022 for which she successfully underwent chemotherapy to vanquish the affected cells. She knows the value of fighting the disease, as cancer runs in her family. Her sister, Jeanne Dubin, also a former tennis player, died of ovarian cancer.
In 2023, Chris was dealt another blow when she was diagnosed with cancer in her pelvic region. Her situation was on a knife’s edge, as a returning cancer isn’t generally good news. As a result, Evert withdrew from her job as an analyst on ESPN and underwent chemotherapy to remove the malignant cells.
Evert succeeded in her endeavour and posted a positive message to Twitter to fans’ delight.
Chris Evert says her cancer is back.
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) December 8, 2023
Keep her in your thoughts & prayers.
“Since I was first diagnosed with cancer two years ago, I've been very open about my experience. I wanted to give all of you an update. My cancer is back. While this is a diagnosis I never wanted to… pic.twitter.com/5ygA2GgJhK
Several sportsmen and people worldwide thronged to share their support for Evert and appreciated the 18-time Grand Slam champion’s indomitable spirit and fighting mentality.
Sending love and strength to Chris Evert. 💕
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) December 8, 2023
The Hall of Famer shared that she has begun chemotherapy after ovarian cancer returned, will miss Australian Open coverage but plans to be ready for the rest of the Grand Slam season. 💪https://t.co/UAkmQhYS5V
Evert will be absent as a commentator on ESPN for the 2024 Australian Open but will return early next year for the rest of the season. Her insightful comments will be missed and her analysis of top players like Novak Djokovic will be fondly reminisced.
Chris Evert once praised Novak Djokovic
Chris Evert once shared her awe-struck comments on world No. 1 and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.
Evert said there “wasn’t anyone like Djokovic” and appreciated his steely mental fortitude and physical prowess.
Chris Evert on Novak Djokovic:
— Danny 🐊 (@DjokovicFan_) December 8, 2023
“Over the past 50 years, I have seen and studied every champion in tennis. I have never seen anyone like Novak Djokovic.
The combination of mental, physical, and emotional strength that goes into every shot is unmatched." pic.twitter.com/8SjiTU4VKN
Evert herself is an 18-time grand slam champion and knows a fair bit about the struggles to maintain consistency at the elite level of tennis. Rarely do tennis players repeat a grand slam-winning feat and Evert recognises the sheer talent and mental strength that Djokovic possesses.
“I have the impression that when you watch Djokovic play, you’re watching the Maestro. There’s no one like him,” Evert said.
“Over the past 50 years I have seen and studied all the champions of this sport.
“I have never seen anyone like Novak Djokovic. The combination of mental, physical and emotional energy he applies to every stroke is unmatched. The time has come to truly appreciate this man.”
Evert will miss commentating on Novak Djokovic’s attempt to secure a 25th grand slam title in Melbourne next January but will hope to catch him live defending his French Open crown.
What are your thoughts on Chris Evert’s struggle and recovery from cancer? Let us know in the comments section below.
