Chris Evert Illness: What Illness Does Chris Evert Have? Does Chris Evert Have Cancer?
by Aishwarya R | Updated Jun 11, 2023
Who is Chris Evert?
Christine Marie Evert, a name that resonates with tennis greatness and an unwavering spirit. From the moment she stepped onto the court, Chris Evert Lloyd became a force to be reckoned with, etching her name in the annals of tennis history. Her indomitable will and remarkable talent propelled her to the summit of the sport, leaving an indelible mark that transcends generations.
Evert's unparalleled success is an ode to her unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence. With an astonishing record of 18 major singles titles, including a record-breaking seven French Open victories and a remarkable six US Open triumphs, she redefined the limits of achievement. Time and again, Evert's skill and unwavering resolve guided her to victory, leaving opponents in awe and fans on the edge of their seats.
Alongside her fierce rival, Martina Navratilova, Evert epitomized the pinnacle of women's tennis during the 1970s and 1980s. Their enthralling battles on the court captivated the world, showcasing a rivalry that was as fierce as it was iconic. Evert's tenacity and grace propelled her to the top of the rankings, where she reigned as the world No. 1 for an astounding 260 weeks. A true champion, she held the coveted year-end world No. 1 singles title on seven occasions, a testament to her enduring dominance.
Evert's grand slam legacy is a testament to her unparalleled consistency and unwavering brilliance. She graced an astounding 34 major singles finals, an accomplishment matched only by the great Novak Djokovic. Stepping onto the court with unwavering determination, Evert reached the semifinals or better in an astonishing 52 of the 56 majors she competed in. Her unwavering commitment to excellence was showcased by an awe-inspiring streak of 34 consecutive majors entered from the 1971 US Open to the 1983 French Open, a feat that speaks volumes about her unyielding drive.
What sets Evert apart is not just her remarkable statistics, but her unwavering spirit and unbreakable will. She thrived under pressure, never losing in the first or second round of a major, and only bowing out in the third round on two occasions. Evert's tenacity was further illustrated by her astonishing record of winning at least one major title for an incredible 13 consecutive years, a feat that remains unmatched.
Evert's legacy extends beyond her extraordinary singles career. As a doubles player, she secured three major titles, showcasing her versatility and skill across all facets of the game. Her passion for tennis extended beyond her time on the court, as she later assumed the role of president of the Women's Tennis Association, dedicating herself to shaping the future of the sport she loved.
Recognized for her immense contributions, Evert received the prestigious Philippe Chatrier award and was rightfully inducted into the hallowed halls of the Hall of Fame. Today, she continues to inspire as a coach and impassioned analyst for ESPN, sharing her profound insights with a new generation of players and fans alike.
Chris Evert Illness
Tennis legend Chris Evert recently shared an update on her health journey, revealing that she is now "cancer-free" after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer over a year ago. In an op-ed published on ESPN, the 68-year-old 18-time Grand Slam winner opened up about her battle with the disease since her diagnosis in December 2021.
Evert disclosed that she discovered she had the BRCA gene mutation, the same mutation that her late sister, Jeanne, had. This genetic mutation puts individuals at a higher risk for ovarian and breast cancer. As a preventative measure, Evert underwent a hysterectomy, but cancer was found in her fallopian tubes.
However, due to the "genetic road map" left by her sister, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2020, doctors were able to detect Evert's cancer early enough to take action. She emphasized that had the cancer gone undetected for a few more months, she likely would have been diagnosed at Stage 3, similar to her sister, with limited treatment options. Instead, she was diagnosed at Stage 1, and immediately began six rounds of chemotherapy. As a result, Evert is now cancer-free, with a 90% chance that the ovarian cancer will not return.
Even after receiving positive news, Evert faced the decision of whether to monitor her health through regular mammograms, MRIs, and ultrasounds or undergo a double mastectomy. After consulting with her doctors, she ultimately chose the latter option. Fortunately, the pathology results came back clean, reducing her risk of developing breast cancer by over 90%.
In her op-ed, Evert encouraged people to listen to their bodies, be aware of their family history, educate themselves about genetic testing, and advocate for their own health. Her personal experience serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection and proactive measures in managing cancer risks.It is inspiring to see Chris Evert share her journey and use her platform to raise awareness about cancer prevention and self-advocacy. Her story serves as a testament to the power of early detection, medical advancements, and the importance of staying proactive in managing one's health.
What Illness does Chris Evert have?
Chris Evert revealed in January 2022 that she had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The illness was discovered following a preventive hysterectomy, which she underwent due to her sister, Jeanne Evert Dubin, having passed away from the same disease in February 2020. Evert shared this information through an ESPN story co-authored with her friend, Chris McKendry. She later tweeted about her diagnosis, expressing gratitude for the early detection and positive expectations from her chemotherapy plan.
In the story, Evert explained that she decided to undergo genetic testing after her sister's ovarian cancer diagnosis. Initially, her sister had tested negative for harmful variants of the BRCA1 gene, which can be an indicator of increased cancer risks, including ovarian cancer. Consequently, their family members were not encouraged to pursue genetic testing.
However, advancements in genetic testing since her sister's diagnosis revealed that the specific variant in the BRCA1 gene carried by Jeanne Evert Dubin actually posed an elevated risk of ovarian cancer. In October 2021, the Evert family received a phone call informing them of this new information.
Motivated by these developments, Chris Evert decided to undergo testing herself, which ultimately led to the discovery that she also carried a harmful variant of the BRCA1 gene. As a preventive measure, she scheduled a hysterectomy in early December, during which her uterus was removed.
Unfortunately, the pathology examination conducted after her surgery revealed the presence of cancerous cells and a tumor originating in her left fallopian tube. Subsequently, Evert underwent another operation on December 13, 2021. The anxious wait for the results of this operation was described by Evert as "the longest three days" of her life.
Does Chris Evert have Cancer?
Chris Evert was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in January 2022. However, she has since shared in an op-ed published in June 2023 that she is currently "cancer-free." Evert underwent treatment, including chemotherapy, and successfully battled the disease. Her recent update indicates that she has overcome cancer and is in remission.
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and female hormones. It is a relatively rare but serious form of cancer that primarily affects older women. Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it has reached an advanced stage, making it challenging to treat.
The exact causes of ovarian cancer are not fully understood, but certain risk factors have been identified. These include age, with the risk increasing as women get older, a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, certain inherited gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, and a history of hormone replacement therapy. Additionally, women who have never been pregnant or have had trouble getting pregnant, as well as those with a history of endometriosis, may have a slightly higher risk.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague and easily overlooked, which contributes to its late diagnosis. Common symptoms include abdominal bloating or swelling, pelvic pain or pressure, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and unexplained weight loss. It is essential for women to pay attention to their bodies and consult a healthcare professional if they experience persistent or concerning symptoms.
Early detection of ovarian cancer is crucial for successful treatment. However, there is currently no widely recommended screening test for ovarian cancer. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examinations, imaging tests (such as ultrasound or CT scans), blood tests (such as the CA-125 tumor marker), and, in some cases, a biopsy.
Treatment options for ovarian cancer depend on the stage of the disease and other factors such as the woman's overall health and preferences. Surgery is the primary treatment approach and involves removing as much of the tumor as possible. This may include removing one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus, nearby lymph nodes, and surrounding tissue. Chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill cancer cells, is often recommended after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
The prognosis for ovarian cancer varies depending on the stage at diagnosis. Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage when the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries. This makes treatment more challenging and reduces the chances of a full recovery. However, advancements in treatment options and ongoing research offer hope for improved outcomes.
Raising awareness about ovarian cancer, its symptoms, and risk factors is essential for early detection and improved survival rates. It is crucial for women to listen to their bodies, seek medical attention for concerning symptoms, and undergo regular check-ups to monitor their health. Ovarian cancer remains a significant health concern, but with continued research and awareness, progress is being made towards better prevention, detection, and treatment strategies.
Chris Evert Marital Life
Chris Evert is not a married woman now but she married three times in the past. Let's explore her marital life.
A Tennis Romance: Chris Evert and Jimmy Connors
In the early 1970s, Chris Evert's love life became a subject of fascination, particularly her romance with fellow tennis player Jimmy Connors. Their achievements on the court and the media frenzy surrounding them made them the talk of the town. They even teamed up for mixed doubles matches, showcasing their remarkable chemistry both on and off the court.
A Promise Unfulfilled: Evert and Connors' Engagement
At the young age of 19, Evert and Connors got engaged, fueled by their shared success, especially their triumph at the 1974 Wimbledon Championships. Plans were set for a wedding on November 4 of the same year. However, fate had a different plan, and the wedding was called off, leaving fans and the media in a state of surprise.
The Tumultuous Journey with John Lloyd
In 1979, Evert embarked on a new chapter in her love life when she walked down the aisle with British tennis player John Lloyd. Their relationship was not without its ups and downs, including a period of separation due to Evert's affair with actor Adam Faith. However, they managed to reconcile, giving their marriage another chance. Unfortunately, their union eventually came to an end, and they officially divorced in April 1987.
Finding Love on the Slopes: Evert and Andy Mill
Introduced by her friend and tennis rival Martina Navratilova, Evert found love in the arms of downhill skier Andy Mill. They exchanged vows in 1988 and were blessed with three sons, Alexander, Nicholas, and Colton. However, their marital bliss was short-lived, and they filed for divorce in November 2006. The dissolution of their marriage was finalized a month later, with Evert agreeing to a settlement of $7 million.
A Golfing Union: Evert and Greg Norman
In June 2008, Evert ventured into her third marriage, this time with Australian golfer Greg Norman. Their union made headlines, but unfortunately, the fairy tale did not last. They announced their separation in October 2009, and their divorce was finalized a few months later. Since then, Evert has chosen not to remarry, focusing on her personal pursuits and endeavors.
Chris Evert's Ever-Evolving Life
Throughout her personal life, Chris Evert has experienced the highs and lows of love and marriage. Her relationships with tennis stars, skiers, and golfers have captured the public's attention and created a captivating narrative. Despite the challenges she has faced, Evert continues to inspire with her resilience and determination. Today, she embraces a life filled with personal fulfillment and new adventures, cherishing the memories and lessons learned along the way.
Chris Evert Children
Chris Evert, the renowned tennis star, embraced motherhood with open arms as she welcomed three sons into her life alongside her ex-husband, Andy Mill. Mill, a former US team ski-racer and two-time Olympian, and Evert exchanged vows in 1988, embarking on an 18-year journey together before parting ways in 2006.
The couple's first son, Alexander, entered the world three years after their wedding, in 1991. Nicholas followed in 1994, and two years later, the youngest member of the family, Colton, completed their joyful trio. Evert's devotion to her sons was unwavering, and she cherished the precious moments spent with them as they grew.
As a tennis legend, Evert naturally passed on her passion for the sport to her three sons. Their former Boca Raton estate, a place they called home, boasted a tennis court where Evert nurtured their skills, engaging in competitive matches with her boys. Evert's guidance and support played an integral role in their development as young athletes. Now adults, Alexander, Nicholas, and Colton have stepped away from the public eye, maintaining a level of privacy.
While their pursuits outside of the limelight remain largely unknown, they have made occasional appearances alongside their mother at special events, showcasing their bond as a close-knit family. In a heartfelt interview with Sports Illustrated, Evert shared her deep connection with motherhood, expressing her belief that she was destined to be a mother of boys. Her love and devotion to her sons have been a constant source of joy and fulfillment in her life, shaping her role as both a tennis icon and a loving mother.
Chris Evert's journey as a mother has been intertwined with her remarkable tennis career, leaving an enduring legacy not only in the world of sports but also within her own family. As her sons navigate their own paths in life, the values instilled by their mother and the memories they shared will forever shape their futures, serving as a testament to the enduring bond of family.
Chris Evert Illness - FAQs
She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer over a year ago.
Chris Evert's career highlights include winning 18 major singles titles, including a record seven French Open titles and six US Open titles. She was ranked world No. 1 for a total of 260 weeks and was the year-end world No. 1 singles player seven times.
Chris Evert has been married three times in the past. Her first husband was fellow tennis player John Lloyd, followed by downhill skier Andy Mill. Her third marriage was to golfer Greg Norman, which ended in divorce a year later.
Chris Evert has three sons named Alexander, Nicholas, and Colton. She welcomed them with her ex-husband Andy Mill.
Chris Evert's career winning percentage in singles matches is 89.97%, which is the second highest in the Open Era for both men and women. On clay courts, her winning percentage is an impressive 94.55%.