'Lucky to have her': Tennis rocked by devastating tragedy
Jeanne Evert Dubin, a former world-ranked tennis player and a younger sister of 18-time grand slam champion Chris Evert, has died. She was 62.
Evert Dubin died on Thursday after a two-year struggle with ovarian cancer, according to an online obituary posted by Lorne & Sons Funeral Home in Delray Beach, where she lived.
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“Jeanne was selfless, caring and kind,” Chris Evert said.
“As a sister, I admired her stellar character and her unwavering devotion to her loved ones.
“She fought a brave battle and now heaven is lucky to have her.”
Tennis world mourns Jeanne Evert
One of five tennis-playing children raised by teaching pro Jimmy Evert and his wife, Colette, Evert Dubin had a standout junior career in which she was the nation's top-ranked player in her age group.
Evert Dubin turned pro in 1973 at age 15 after having already beaten established stars Rosie Casals and top-ranked Margaret Court.
For two years, she teamed with sister Chris in doubles, and they were ranked as high as No. 4.
Evert Dubin was the youngest to represent her country in Wightman Cup competition in 1973.
She didn't lose a match in helping the US reach the Fed Cup final in 1974.
She reached a career-high 28th in the world in 1978, when she retired from competition.
Evert Dubin met husband Brahm Dubin while she was competing at a tournament in Montreal in 1978.
They married the following year and were the parents of Eric and Catie.
Evert Dubin later coached for many years at the Delray Beach Tennis Centre.
Her husband died in 2006. Besides her mother, children and sister Chris, she is survived by sister Clare Evert-Shane, brothers Drew and John and four grandchildren.
A funeral is Monday in Fort Lauderdale.
Wanted to pass on my heart felt condolences to the entire Evert family. Sadly Jeanne Evert Dubin has passed away after a long battle with illness. Jeanne was a great tennis player but more importantly an even better person who has sadly been taken, way too soon. 💔@ChrissieEvert
— Rennae Stubbs (@rennaestubbs) February 21, 2020
My most heartfelt condolences to @ChrissieEvert, John Evert and the entire Evert family on the passing of Jeannie! I’m so sorry. https://t.co/a0v2FSM82f
— Nick Bollettieri (@NickBollettieri) February 24, 2020
More sad news from the tennis world as Chris Evert's little sister, Jeanne Evert Dubin, has died in south Florida at only 62. https://t.co/vfESv5KLIU
— Stephanie Myles (@OpenCourt) February 21, 2020