29 October 2023 , 21:16
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Wimbledon legend Pete Sampras has sadly confirmed that his wife, Bridgette, has ovarian cancer.
Bridgette Wilson Sampras, 50, has had cancer since December, going through major surgery and chemotherapy, with the Tennis legend releasing the tragic news for the first time.
In a statement shared by the ATP Tour, Sampras said: "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.
"Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.
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"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.
"Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all, has been inspiring. 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 will end this by humbly asking for good thoughts and prayers for our family as Bridgette continues to thrive on her healing journey. thank you."
Pete Sampras with his wife Bridgette Wilson and their sonSampras has been married to Bridgette for 23 years, with her a regular at his matches, cheering him on towards the end of his career. A former actress, singer and model, Bridgette was crowned Miss Teen USA in 1990 when she was 17 years old. She has two sons with Sampras in Christian, 20 and Ryan, 18.
Numerous messages have been sent to the Sampras family on Twitter, with Andy Murray writing: "All the best to your wife and your family Pete".
One of the greatest tennis players of all-time, Sampras dominated the sport for numerous years, winning 14 Grand Slam's - a record until Roger Federer had surpassed him.
Known as 'Pistol Pete' due to his powerful and fast serving, Sampras had been the youngest US Open's winner when doing so in 1990 at just the age of 19, before winning it for a final time 12 years later before retiring. He had been the world number one player throughout the majority of 1993 to 1998 - winning seven Wimbledon titles and five US Open's.