Martina Navratilova is standing by her friend and longtime rival Chris Evert after Evert shared a sad cancer update on June 25.
What happened?
Evert revealed her ovarian cancer has returned for a second time, just days before Wimbledon.
Martina Navratilova left an emotional message under Evert's post: “My friend Chrissie is a champion of champions and as such she will slay this monster again.
Why it matters for Martina Navratilova
Navratilova and Evert have been through similar battles, both facing cancer, which has brought them closer together.
Navratilova was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 and successfully treated before later facing a recurrence of breast cancer along with throat cancer in 2023.
What comes next?
Evert will begin chemotherapy and will be unable to fulfill her commentary duties for ESPN during Wimbledon.
Navratilova's wife, Julia Lemigova, also sent her support to Evert, saying: “Thinking of you, Chrissie, and sending love.”
The tennis world has rallied around Evert, with many offering their support and well wishes.
Evert and Navratilova have 18 Grand Slam singles titles each and have grown closer through their shared cancer struggles.
Their experiences and friendship were highlighted in the Netflix documentary ‘Chris & Martina: The Final Set,’ where Evert revealed that going through similar battles brought them even closer.
Evert said: “When we got cancer together it really cemented our lasting friendship.
Navratilova added: “You feel like it is never going to pass.
On June 25, Evert announced she would be starting chemotherapy, and the tennis world quickly came together to offer their support.
The 18-time Grand Slam champion will miss Wimbledon, but she has the support of her friends and fans, including Martina Navratilova.