Martina Navratilova visibly struggled to hold back tears live on the BBC during Wimbledon coverage. She became emotional as she spoke about her close friend, Chris Evert. The conversation took place after Coco Gauff’s three-set defeat to new finalist Karolina Muchova in the Wimbledon semi-finals. However, the discussion quickly moved beyond the match itself.
Evert’s Absence from Wimbledon
One familiar face was notably missing among the prominent figures of women’s tennis gathered. Evert was absent, choosing not to attend Wimbledon this year to concentrate on her treatment. This followed the news that she has been diagnosed with cancer for a third time. BBC host Clare Balding highlighted the moment, stating, “It gives us a moment to talk about Chris Evert and we know what a struggle she is going through right now with the cancer having come back again.”
Navratilova fought back tears as she shared insights into Evert’s condition. “Chris just started the treatment, third time cancer, she will be OK,” Navratilova said. She added, “It’s tough, I cannot talk about it without crying because we just found out before the tournament that the cancer came back, but she will be OK.” Navratilova expressed her admiration for Evert, stating, “She’s tough as nails.”
Strength and Optimism Amidst Treatment
Navratilova also revealed her recent contact with Evert. “I talked to her last week, she sounded so strong and like I am the weak one here,” Navratilova recounted, concluding, “She’s a champion.” Billie Jean King then shared her own recent exchange with Evert, adding, “It’s unbelievable.” King quoted Evert as saying, ‘Billie I might have this six more times, it’s not a death sentence at all’. King described Evert as “so brave.”
Just days before Wimbledon began, Evert, 71, announced she had undergone surgery. This was following the return of her ovarian cancer. The champion-turned-pundit was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in December 2021, with the illness returning in 2023.
Evert’s Public Statement and Dedication
Writing on Instagram at the time, the three-time Wimbledon champion detailed her health journey. She stated, “I have always believed in being open and honest about my health journey.” Evert continued, “This past weekend, after undergoing CT and PET scans, I learned my ovarian cancer has returned.” She confirmed her immediate steps, “I have already undergone surgery as the first step in my treatment and recovery, and will begin chemotherapy in the coming weeks.”
Evert explicitly stated her reasons for absence and her focus. “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,” she wrote. Despite the challenges, Evert maintained a positive outlook: “Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle.” She conveyed gratitude, saying, “I am deeply grateful to my medical team, my family, friends and everyone who has reached out with kindness and encouragement,” and expressed hope, “I look forward to seeing everyone very soon.”
Balding also spoke of Evert’s ongoing impact, saying, “And I know also that she is watching Wimbledon from afar and she is so invested.” Balding concluded that Evert “will have been right involved with that women’s semi-final.” Chris Evert has not attended Wimbledon this year.