Gabriela Dabrowski, one of the most accomplished players in tennis doubles, revealed on Tuesday that she overcame a private battle with breast cancer while competing at the highest level in 2024.
The 32-year-old Canadian, currently ranked World No. 3 in doubles, shared her journey in an emotional Instagram post, calling it a “privilege” to identify as a survivor. Diagnosed in mid-April, Gabriela Dabrowski underwent two surgeries before opting to delay further treatment to compete in key tournaments.
“How can something so small cause such a big problem? This is the question I asked myself when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I know this will come as a shock to many, but I am okay, and I will be okay,” Dabrowski wrote.
Despite her diagnosis, Dabrowski continued to thrive on the court. Alongside New Zealand’s Erin Routliffe, she reached the Wimbledon final in women’s doubles and later clinched bronze with Felix Auger-Aliassime in mixed doubles at the Paris Olympics. She also underwent endocrine therapy during her competitive schedule, showing incredible resilience.
Dabrowski concluded her remarkable year by winning the WTA Finals with Routliffe, adding another milestone to her illustrious career. The three-time Grand Slam champion previously won mixed doubles titles at the French Open 2017 (with Rohan Bopanna) and the Australian Open 2018 (with Mate Pavic), as well as the women’s doubles crown at the US Open 2023 (with Routliffe).
Reflecting on her journey, Dabrowski wrote, “Early on in my diagnosis, I was afraid of cancer becoming a part of my identity forever. I don’t feel that way anymore. It is a privilege to be able to call myself a survivor.”
Dabrowski’s courage and determination, both on and off the court, serve as an inspiration to the global tennis community.
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