Nine-time Grand Slam champion and tennis Hall of Famer Monica Seles has revealed she has been living with myasthenia gravis, a rare neuromuscular autoimmune disease, for the past three years. The 51-year-old made the disclosure in August 2025, just days before the start of the U.S. Open, as part of a campaign to raise awareness of the condition. The announcement came through a series of interviews and public appearances linked to her partnership with pharmaceutical company argenx.
Seles said she chose to speak publicly now in the hope that sharing her experience will help others recognise symptoms early and seek treatment.
Seles Describes Life-Altering Diagnosis
The former world number one recounted the moment she first realised something was wrong. While playing tennis casually with family, she missed an easy shot, telling them, 'I see two balls'. Soon after, she began experiencing persistent fatigue and difficulty with everyday activities, such as brushing her hair.
As reported by The Guardian, Seles said she is adjusting to a 'new normal', describing her condition as the latest in a series of life changes that have demanded adaptation.
'And then, really, being diagnosed with myasthenia gravis: another reset. But one thing, as I tell kids that I mentor: "You've got to always adjust. That ball is bouncing, and you've just got to adjust." And that's what I'm doing now', Seles said in an interview.
What Is Myasthenia Gravis?
According to Cleveland Clinic, myasthenia gravis is a rare chronic autoimmune disorder that causes muscle weakness. The condition occurs when the immune system attacks the communication between nerves and muscles, disrupting muscle control.
Common symptoms include drooping eyelids, double vision, difficulty speaking or swallowing, and muscle weakness that worsens with activity. While there is no cure, treatments such as medication, physical therapy and in some cases surgery can improve quality of life and manage symptoms. Early diagnosis is key, as prompt treatment can help prevent complications.
The 1993 On-Court Stabbing
Seles' career was famously interrupted in 1993 when she was stabbed by a spectator during a quarter-final match in Hamburg, Germany. The attack, carried out with a knife by a fan of her rival Steffi Graf, left her with a serious back injury and forced her out of the sport for more than two years.
The incident was one of the most shocking moments in professional tennis history and had a lasting impact on player security measures at tournaments worldwide.
Is There a Link Between the Stabbing and Myasthenia Gravis?
There is no medical evidence linking Seles' 1993 stabbing to her recent diagnosis of myasthenia gravis. Experts note that the condition is caused by an autoimmune malfunction rather than physical trauma of the type sustained in the attack.
Seles herself has not suggested any connection between the two events. The inclusion of both in public discussion reflects curiosity about her life's major challenges rather than a proven medical correlation.
Campaigning for Awareness
Seles has partnered with argenx to lead the 'Go for Greater' campaign, which aims to increase understanding of myasthenia gravis, encourage people to seek medical advice for unexplained symptoms, and provide support resources for those affected.
Her role involves speaking at public events, sharing her personal experience and working with healthcare professionals to improve awareness. The campaign launch coincides with the U.S. Open, ensuring her message reaches a global audience.
