Pete Sampras announces wife Bridgette's cancer diagnosis

The American actress, singer and former beauty queen, gained fame for her roles in Billy Madison, Last Action Hero and I Know What You Did Last Summer.

She married her grand-slam champion beau in 2000 and the couple have two sons.

Mr Sampras announced the news on social media through the official ATP tour account saying "as most have come to know, I'm a pretty quiet and private person, however, this past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for me and my family and I have decided to share what's been going on".

He said his wife was diagnosed in December 2022 and has undergone "major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy".

Their two sons, Christian, 20, and Ryan, 18, have been "strong supporters" of their mother through the treatment, Mr Sampras said.

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The former world number one tennis player said it had been difficult to seek help "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."

The family has received well wishes from the international tennis community with tennis star Sir Andy Murray sending "all the best".