Few athletes have shaped women’s tennis quite like Chris Evert. Known for her remarkable consistency, mental toughness, and elegant style, Evert remains one of the greatest players in tennis history. From dominating Grand Slam tournaments to facing personal challenges, including her ongoing battle with ovarian cancer, Evert’s story continues to inspire fans worldwide.
Chris Evert’s Early Life and Rise in Tennis
Born on December 21, 1954, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Chris Evert grew up in a tennis-loving family. Her father, Jimmy Evert, was a professional coach who introduced her to the sport at an early age. Under his guidance, Evert developed the precise baseline game that would later revolutionize women’s tennis.
By the age of 16, Evert had already become a sensation on the professional circuit. Her breakthrough came at the 1971 US Open when she reached the semifinals as a teenager, signaling the arrival of a future superstar.
A Dominant Force in Women’s Tennis
Chris Evert’s tennis career is filled with remarkable achievements. She turned professional in 1972 and quickly established herself as one of the most dominant players in history.
Among her major accomplishments are:
- 18 Grand Slam singles titles.
- Seven French Open championships, a record that stood for decades.
- Six US Open singles titles.
- Three Wimbledon championships.
- Two Australian Open titles.
- 157 career singles titles.
- World No. 1 ranking for 260 weeks.
Evert was especially known for her consistency. She reached the semifinals or better in 52 of the 56 Grand Slam tournaments she entered, a feat that remains unmatched in many respects. Her calm demeanor and relentless baseline play earned her the nickname “Ice Maiden.”
Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova: Tennis’ Greatest Rivalry
No discussion of Chris Evert is complete without mentioning her legendary rivalry with Martina Navratilova.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Evert and Navratilova dominated women’s tennis. The pair faced each other 80 times, producing one of the greatest rivalries in sports history. Their contrasting styles fascinated fans:
- Evert relied on consistency, precision, and exceptional baseline play.
- Navratilova brought aggressive serve-and-volley tactics and athleticism.
Their matches often determined the biggest championships in tennis. Despite fierce on-court competition, the two developed a deep friendship that has endured long after retirement. Their relationship has become even stronger as both women have supported each other through personal health battles.
Chris Evert’s Ovarian Cancer Journey
In January 2022, Chris Evert publicly revealed that she had been diagnosed with Stage 1 ovarian cancer. The diagnosis came after preventive surgery prompted by genetic testing. Evert discovered she carried the BRCA1 gene mutation, which significantly increases the risk of developing ovarian and breast cancers.
The decision to undergo preventive surgery likely saved her life. Doctors discovered cancer cells in her fallopian tubes before the disease had widely spread. Evert underwent chemotherapy and announced later in 2022 that she had completed treatment successfully.
However, the journey did not end there.
In late 2023, Evert announced that her ovarian cancer had returned, forcing her to step away temporarily from broadcasting duties while receiving further treatment. After additional therapy, she again reported positive progress.
Unfortunately, in June 2026, Evert revealed that her ovarian cancer had returned for a third time. She underwent surgery and is preparing for another round of chemotherapy, leading her to miss Wimbledon broadcasting duties this year. Despite the setback, Evert has expressed determination and optimism as she continues treatment.
Her openness about her illness has raised awareness about ovarian cancer, genetic testing, and the importance of early detection.
How Old Is Chris Evert?
Chris Evert was born on December 21, 1954, making her 71 years old in 2026. Even after retiring from professional tennis in 1989, she has remained highly active as a commentator, analyst, philanthropist, and tennis academy founder.
Many younger fans know Evert through her insightful commentary for major networks, particularly during Grand Slam events.
Chris Evert’s Marriages and Personal Life
Chris Evert’s personal life has often attracted media attention.
Marriage to John Lloyd
Evert married British tennis player John Lloyd in 1979. During this period, she competed under the name Chris Evert Lloyd. The marriage lasted until 1987.
Marriage to Andy Mill
In 1988, Evert married former Olympic skier Andy Mill. The couple had three sons together and remained married for nearly two decades before divorcing in 2006.
Marriage to Greg Norman
Evert later married Australian golf legend Greg Norman in 2008. Their marriage received significant media attention but ended after just 15 months, with the couple divorcing in 2009.
Currently, Chris Evert is not publicly known to be married.
Life Beyond Tennis
Following retirement, Evert transitioned successfully into broadcasting and business. She has worked extensively as a television analyst, offering expert insights during Grand Slam tournaments.
She also co-founded the Evert Tennis Academy in Florida, helping develop future generations of tennis players. In addition, Evert remains involved in charitable work through Chris Evert Charities, supporting children and families in need.
Chris Evert’s Lasting Legacy
Chris Evert’s impact on tennis extends far beyond statistics. Her professionalism, consistency, and competitive spirit transformed women’s tennis and inspired countless athletes.
Today, she is remembered not only as an 18-time Grand Slam champion but also as a resilient individual who has faced personal challenges with courage and transparency. Whether through her historic rivalry with Martina Navratilova, her advocacy for cancer awareness, or her continued involvement in the sport, Chris Evert remains one of the most respected figures in tennis history.
