Triple Olympic gold medallist Jess Fox has revealed that she had a tumour removed from her left kidney in August 2025.
Fox’s management confirmed the operation was successful and, while she experienced some “post-surgery complications,” she is recovering well.
The 31-year-old will miss the remaining World Cup events in Europe to focus on her recovery at home.
“It’s been a whirlwind over the last few weeks, but I’m all good – just a couple of gnarly new scars, a bit less kidney, and a whole lot more toughness! I’m feeling positive and looking forward to heading home, focusing on recovery, and then building towards being back on the water again,” Fox said in a statement.
The slalom canoeist also thanked her medical team on Instagram.
“The surgery went really well and I’m on the mend. I’m super grateful to the incredible medical staff for their care and expertise – thank you Dr Mohan Arianayagam and his team, and Dr Stephen Nolan, Dr Parrapil, the amazing nurses and physios at Norwest, Dr Scott Reid, my physio Tony and psych Chris, and our Paddle Aus team for their support,” the caption read.
“And of course my wonderful family and friends.”
Paddle Australia also sent their best wishes.
“Jessica’s health and recovery is of the highest priority and while she recovers, she will not take part in ICF World Cups 4 & 5,” they said in a statement.
“We look forward to seeing her back paddling again soon.”
Fox served as Australia’s opening ceremony flagbearer at the Paris Olympics, where she went on to win two gold medals.
During the Games, she was also elected to the IOC Athletes’ Commission as one of four new members serving until the Brisbane 2032 Games.
“It has been a difficult time for Jess, her family and for her support crew. But the one thing we know is that Jess is an incredibly resilient person and she has faced this latest challenge with her renowned determination and fight, just as you’d expect,” explained Ian Chesterman, president of the Australian Olympic Committee.
“Through her incredible efforts in sport and the many other projects where she is making a difference, Jess has impacted on the lives of so many, not just in Australia but across the world. I know that all those people will now be cheering for her to make a full and speedy recovery and are looking forward to seeing her back on the water.
“Jess is an extraordinary person and a true inspiration. For now, she needs to concentrate on getting better and then we can’t wait to see her back in action.”
Images: Instagram
