Full Breakdown
Martina Navratilova’s Second Cancer Diagnosis and Family Response
6/13/2026, 10:25:19 PM
Diagnosis and Immediate Family Reaction
In December 2022, Martina Navratilova, 69, received simultaneous diagnoses of throat cancer and a recurrence of breast cancer. Julia Lemigova, Navratilova’s wife, learned the news shortly before Christmas and described it as “the most devastating” because it followed Navratilova’s 2010 breast-cancer episode. Lemigova said she concealed her tears to keep focus on Navratilova, while their daughters Emma and Victoria flew in immediately to support their mother.
Prior Cancer History and Documentary Context
Navratilova’s first breast-cancer diagnosis in 2010 required a lumpectomy. The Netflix documentary *Chris & Martina: The Final Set* follows her 50-year rivalry with Chris Evert, who faced stage-1 ovarian cancer in 2021. The film interweaves Navratilova’s 2010 battle, the 2022 dual diagnosis, and the friendship that sustained both athletes through illness.
Key Individuals
- Martina Navratilova – Grand Slam champion and documentary subject.
- Julia Lemigova – Navratilova’s wife, former reality-TV personality, primary spokesperson.
- Emma and Victoria Lemigova – Daughters who traveled to assist during the 2022 diagnosis.
- Chris Evert – Former rival, featured in the documentary, also a cancer survivor.
Timeline of Health Events
- 2010 – Navratilova’s initial breast-cancer diagnosis and lumpectomy.
- December 2022 – Throat cancer and breast-cancer recurrence; family learns the news before Christmas.
- June 26 – *Chris & Martina: The Final Set* premieres on Netflix.
Why It Matters
The public disclosure of Navratilova’s diagnosis, paired with the documentary release, spotlights cancer awareness and illustrates how long-term partnerships navigate serious illness. By sharing their experience, Navratilova and Lemigova contribute to destigmatizing cancer discussions and demonstrate the importance of familial support during treatment.
Official Statements & Responses
Lemigova emphasized the emotional weight of a second cancer episode, noting that she and Navratilova “choose to be there for each other” while she deliberately held back tears. She highlighted Emma and Victoria’s immediate arrival and the family’s collective effort to make the holiday season as supportive as possible. Regarding the documentary, Lemigova said viewers will see the “compassion and kindness” that defined Navratilova’s and Evert’s mutual support.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When I found out it was the most devastating news, especially [because] it wasn't the first time, unfortunately,” — Julia Lemigova
- “Martina is my person. She's my life, she's my wife,” — Julia Lemigova
- “Victoria and Emma, they've been so supportive. They flew immediately from wherever they were,” — Julia Lemigova
- “Chris was there for Martina — vice versa during the illness.” — Julia Lemigova
Upcoming Documentary Release and Ongoing Care
*Chris & Martina: The Final Set* becomes available on Netflix on June 26, offering viewers insight into Navratilova’s current health journey now includes both cancers, while Lemigova and their children remain actively involved in her care and advocacy.
