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Martina Navratilova Breaks Down Over Chris Evert's Third Cancer Diagnosis During Wimbledon Coverage

Martina Navratilova struggled to contain her emotions during BBC Wimbledon coverage while discussing Chris Evert's third ovarian cancer diagnosis.

Asude Karataş • 11 Temmuz 2026 15:01 • 3 dk okuma • 8 görüntülenme

Martina Navratilova became visibly emotional while providing a health update on tennis icon Chris Evert during BBC coverage of Wimbledon, revealing that the 71-year-old has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer for the third time and has begun treatment.

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Fellow Tennis Legend Reinforces Message of Resilience
Rivalry Transformed Into Lasting Friendship

Navratilova, 69, struggled to maintain composure as she addressed Evert's condition, which became public shortly before the tournament commenced. "Chris just started the treatment, third time with cancer, she will be ok," Navratilova said, her voice wavering. "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."

Despite the gravity of the diagnosis, Navratilova emphasized Evert's fortitude. She recalled a recent conversation with her former rival, noting that Evert had sounded remarkably strong. "I talked to her last week, she sounded so strong and like I am the weak one here. She's a champion," Navratilova explained.

Fellow Tennis Legend Reinforces Message of Resilience

Billie Jean King, who joined Navratilova in the BBC studio, echoed confidence in Evert's ability to fight the disease. King shared details of a conversation with Evert, in which the cancer survivor expressed her unwavering determination. According to King, Evert stated: "Billie I might have this six more times, it's not a death sentence at all."

BBC presenter Clare Balding added that Evert remains deeply invested in the tournament despite her health challenges, noting that the tennis legend is following events closely from afar and was particularly engaged with the women's semi-final competition.

Rivalry Transformed Into Lasting Friendship

The dynamic between Navratilova and Evert reflects a remarkable transformation in their relationship. The two dominated women's tennis throughout their careers as fierce competitors on the court, yet developed a profound friendship following their retirements from professional play. Navratilova herself has survived cancer battles in her own past, which informed her empathetic response to Evert's news.

What type of cancer has Chris Evert been diagnosed with?+

Chris Evert has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer for the third time in her life. She announced the diagnosis publicly through Instagram and began treatment shortly thereafter.

When did Martina Navratilova provide this health update?+

Navratilova provided the update during BBC coverage of Wimbledon. The tournament was ongoing at the time of her remarks, and the Evert diagnosis had been revealed shortly before the event began.

Have Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert always been close friends?+

No. The two were fierce rivals during their professional tennis careers, but became firm friends after retiring from the sport. Their relationship transformed from competitive opponents into close companions.

Who else commented on Chris Evert's condition during the Wimbledon coverage?+

Billie Jean King, another tennis legend, joined Navratilova in the BBC studio and shared her own conversation with Evert, emphasizing the cancer survivor's strength and positive outlook on fighting the disease.

Has Martina Navratilova dealt with cancer herself?+

Yes. Navratilova has had her own cancer battles in the past, which contributed to her emotional understanding of Evert's current health situation and her ability to speak empathetically about the challenge ahead.

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