Chris Evert to miss Wimbledon coverage after cancer recurrence

Chris Evert has said her ovarian cancer has returned for a third time, and she will not be part of this year’s Wimbledon coverage. The 71-year-old has already had surgery and expects to begin chemotherapy in the coming weeks.

Evert, one of tennis’s most decorated champions, was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in December 2021. She won 18 major singles titles during her playing career, including three Wimbledon crowns, and has remained a familiar presence in tennis broadcasting since retiring in 1989.

Her absence will be felt around Wimbledon, where she had been due to work for ESPN. The broadcaster expressed support for Evert and said it hopes to welcome her back when she is ready.

The announcement also drew public support from Martina Navratilova, Evert’s long-time rival and friend. For many tennis fans, the news is a reminder of Evert’s lasting place in the sport: not only as an Open era great, but as a respected voice around the game.