Canadian tennis star Gabriela Dabrowski has opened up about her recent breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, sharing her experiences to raise awareness about the importance of early detection. The three-time Grand Slam doubles champion revealed on social media yesterday, after keeping her battle private for several months, detailing how she underwent two surgeries to address the illness.
"I know this will come as a shock to many, but I am OK and I will be OK," Dabrowski stated on Instagram, emphasizing the importance of early screenings, saying, "Early detection saves lives. I can wholeheartedly agree with this."
The 32-year-old from Ottawa felt the first lump during a self-exam in the spring of 2023. Initially, after seeking medical advice, she was told not to worry. But as the year progressed, she noticed it was growing bigger. This led her to consult with WTA doctors, prompting her to have scans and examinations.
"These are words you never expect to hear, and in an instant your life or the life of a loved one turns upside down," she recounted, reflecting on the moment she learned of her diagnosis. Despite this shocking news, Dabrowski chose not to let it overshadow her achievements, competing actively throughout her treatment.
Dabrowski had to take some time off after losing the Miami Open doubles final at the end of March but made her triumphant return to the court by winning the Nottingham Open alongside New Zealand partner Erin Routliffe just three months later. Remarkably, Dabrowski managed to compete at Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics, even delaying treatment to participate.
During this extraordinary year, she reached the final at Wimbledon and won bronze at the Olympics with Félix Auger-Aliassime. She also capped off her season by capturing the doubles title at the WTA Finals with Routliffe. Highlighting the surprise of what athletes endure, Routliffe wrote on Instagram, "A great reminder you have no idea what people are going through. Here’s to more smiling in 2025."
Dabrowski's mindset has shifted significantly since her diagnosis. "When the threat of losing everything I’d worked for my entire life became a real possibility, only then did I begin to authentically appreciate what I had," she shared. She recognized the support from those around her, including her parents, friends, and healthcare professionals, realizing their impact on her life and career.
"My mindset shifted from 'I have to do this (play tennis and not waste my skills)' to 'I get to do this,'" she elaborated, explaining how this new perspective allowed her to find joy amid her challenges. She noted how the experience deepened her appreciation for the opportunities she has as both an athlete and individual.
By sharing her story, Dabrowski hopes to inspire and encourage others to prioritize their health, especially around significant health awareness months. Throughout October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, she advocated for regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, acknowledging she feels part of something much larger than herself.
"Early on in my diagnosis, I was afraid of cancer becoming part of my identity forever. I don't feel like I am defined by this diagnosis anymore. It is a privilege to be able to call myself a survivor," she concluded, lending her voice to the importance of awareness and resilience.