Stan Wawrinka is leading messages of support for Chris Evert after the tennis legend revealed her ovarian cancer has returned. On Thursday, Evert shared the news on social media.
What happened?
Chris Evert underwent surgery and will begin chemotherapy in the coming weeks. She had previously undergone cancer treatments in 2022 and 2023.
Why it matters for Stan Wawrinka
Stan Wawrinka joined Martina Navratilova, Donna Vekić, and Ajla Tomljanović in sending messages of support to Evert. Navratilova backed her friend to beat cancer again.
Evert is a seven-time French Open champion, a record that only Rafael Nadal has eclipsed. She is also a member of the International Tennis Hall of Fame and previously served as president of the WTA.
What comes next?
Evert will take a step back from her professional commitments over the next few months as she focuses on her cancer treatment. She expressed gratitude to her medical team, family, and friends for their support.
Stan Wawrinka's message of support is a testament to the tennis community's solidarity. Evert won 157 singles titles during her career, including 18 Grand Slam titles.
The Florida native was expected to head to London for the 2026 Wimbledon Championships and for the promotion of the Netflix documentary “Chris & Martina: The Final Set,” featuring herself and longtime rival and friend Martina Navratilova.
Evert's cancer recurrence has sent shockwaves through the tennis world. But with the support of Stan Wawrinka and the tennis community, she is determined to fight this battle.
On social media, Evert wrote: “Ovarian cancer is relentless, but I will stay optimistic and determined in continuing to fight this battle.”
Martina Navratilova wrote on Instagram: “My friend Chrissie is a champion of champions, and as such, she will slay this monster again.”
The tennis community is rallying around Evert. Stan Wawrinka's support is just one example of the outpouring of love and encouragement she has received.
Evert's road to recovery will be long and challenging. But with the support of Stan Wawrinka and the tennis community, she is ready to face this battle head-on.