Tennis legend Martina Navratilova announced that she has been diagnosed with both throat and breast cancer.
The 66-year-old former Wimbledon champion said she has been diagnosed with a dual form of cancer after she found a swollen lymph node in her neck in November.
“This double whammy is serious but still fixable,” Navratilova told The Times. “I’m hoping for a favorable outcome. It’s going to stink for a while but I’ll fight with all I have got.”
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Navratilova has been diagnosed with Stage 1 throat cancer. In addition, a form of breast cancer was discovered during throat examinations, which was still in its early stages.
The former athlete was previously diagnosed with non-invasive breast cancer in 2010. Six months after her diagnosis at the time, she got an all-clear following a lumpectomy and six weeks of radiation.
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She is set to will begin treatment this month, with a strong prognosis. The throat cancer is type HPV. It responds well to treatment.
“I really didn’t talk much about breast cancer before I had it,” Navratilova told People magazine. “Now, I’m approached by women and we share our stories. It’s encouraging to see that there’s life after cancer.”
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Navratilova is a 59-time Grand Slam champion including singles, doubles, and mixed events. Her career covers the mid-1970s to the mid-2000s.
“Both these cancers are in their early stages with great outcomes. Martina won’t be covering the Australian Open for Tennis Channel from their studio but hopes to be able to join in from time to time by Zoom,” a statement from the tennis star said.