PLAYERS RALLYING AROUND EVERT
CHRIS EVERT has revealed she has ovarian cancer and has already undergone two surgeries.
But the 18-time Grand Slam champion will continue to commentate on the Australian Open from home during her chemotherapy for US television channel ESPN.
Evert, who had the first of six rounds of chemotherapy this month, said she feels incredibly fortunate that the cancer was caught before it spread.
The 67-year-old said:
“I’ve lived a very charmed life. Now I have some challenges ahead of me.
“But, I have comfort in knowing the chemotherapy is to ensure that cancer does not come back.
“I feel very lucky they caught it early and expect positive results from my chemo plan.”
Evert’s younger sister Jeane died of the same disease two years ago but the family were initially informed that genetic testing had not flagged up anything sinister.
However, further research led to advancements in the field and Evert was advised in October to seek more information.
Chris said of Jeane: “When I go into chemo, she is my inspiration.
“I’ll be thinking of her. And she’ll get me through it.”
Messages of support flooded in on social media, with Evert’s long-time rival and friend Martina Navratilova writing on Twitter: “We are all with you Chrissie, you are a true champion and I have no doubt you will conquer this nasty opponent with nary a sweat!”
American player Madison Keys wrote: “So glad you’re doing OK now. Sending you lots of love.”
Britain’s former world No.27 Laura Robson tweeted: “Wishing you all the best for a speedy recovery.”