Pete Sampras Says His Wife Bridgette Has Ovarian Cancer: 'Exceptionally Challenging Time for My Family'

Pete Sampras says his wife Bridgette Wilson-Sampras has ovarian cancer.

Over the weekend, the 52-year-old retired tennis star revealed Bridgette's illness in a statement released via the ATP Tour.

"As most have come to know, I am a pretty quiet and private person. However, this past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family, and I have decided to share what's been going on," he began the statement, which was posted on X (formerly Twitter).

"Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer," he continued. "Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy."

The 14-time Grand Slam champion then went on to share how difficult the experience has been for their family.

"It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step up and be such strong supporters of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing," he said, referring to sons Christian, 20, and Ryan, 18.

He also praised his wife of 23 years for her strength and resilience amid all that she is facing with her health. "Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all has been inspiring," he said.

Sampras concluded his statement by requesting support and prayers as Bridgette, 50, recovers. "I have also learned that it is very hard to reach for support when something is simply too hard to talk about. With that said, I am humbling asking for good thoughts and prayers for our family as Bridgette continues to thrive on her healing journey."

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Fellow tennis player Andy Murray sent his well-wishes, commenting on the post, "All the best to your wife and your family, Pete.”

Bridgette is a former actress who starred in such films as The Wedding Planner, Billy Madison and I Know What You Did Last Summer. Her acting credits also include roles in the TV shows Frasier, Saved by the Bell and CSI: Miami. She was crowned Miss Teen USA in 1990.

Sampras, meanwhile, is regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. He famously won seven Wimbledon titles, five U.S. Open championships and two Australian Opens. Thanks to his powerful serve, he earned the nickname "Pistol Pete" during his career heyday. In 2007, he was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame with Bridgette and his two sons by his side at the ceremony.

The couple wed in 2000 after nine months of dating.