Three-time Wimbledon champion Chris Evert has confirmed her ovarian cancer has returned, announcing she will miss this year's edition of Wimbledon while receiving treatment18:31, 25 Jun 2026Updated 18:31, 25 Jun 2026Three-time Wimbledon champion Chris Evert has revealed that her ovarian cancer has returned in a devastating health update. The 71-year-old tennis legend, who triumphed on the grass courts of SW19 in 1974, 1976 and 1981, posted on X on Thursday afternoon to disclose her diagnosis.‌She also confirmed that she will miss next week's tournament as she undergoes treatment. She wrote: "I have always believed in being open and honest about my health journey.‌"This past weekend, after undergoing CT and PET scans, I learned that my ovarian cancer has returned. I have already undergone surgery as the first step in my treatment and recovery, and will begin chemotherapy in the coming weeks.‌"Because of this, I will not be attending Wimbledon this year, and I will step back from my professional commitments over the next few months to focus on my health. Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle."I am deeply grateful to my medical team, my family, friends, and everyone who has reached out with kindness and encouragement. I look forward to seeing everyone again soon."Evert was first diagnosed with cancer in 2021, fewer than two years after losing her sister to the illness. She had a preventative double mastectomy in December 2022 following the discovery that she carried the BRCA gene.‌In 2023, Evert discovered that her cancer had sadly returned, and underwent further treatment before conquering the illness the following year.A true tennis legend, Evert's absence will undoubtedly be felt at this year's edition of Wimbledon.‌The Fort Lauderdale-born star retired in 1989 with an impressive collection of 18 Grand Slam singles titles, along with three more in the doubles.She also claimed eight Fed Cups between 1977 and 1989, as well as four Tour Finals across 1972 to 1977.Boasting a remarkable 157 singles titles throughout her career, Evert was also ranked No. 1 in the world in November 1975 - a thoroughly deserved accolade reserved for only the finest in tennis.‌Following her most recent diagnosis, many of her fellow players were swift to express their support for Evert.The WTA's official Instagram account wrote: "Thinking of you and sending you all the love," with a green heart emoji, while Ana Navarro-Cardenas added: "We are all in your corner. Sending you strength."Article continues belowMartina Navratilova said: "My friend Chrissie is a champion of champions and as such she will slay this monster again."We are all pulling for you, and know you will come out on the other side cancer free again - lots of love, m."Meanwhile, Malika Andrews added: "Your health is the most important thing, my friend. Sending you so much love and positivity," as Monica Puig wrote: "Sending you all the love and good vibes," with a red heart.