British player Ross Hutchins diagnosed with cancer

Ross Hutchins (left) and Andy Murray play doubles at Indian Wells in 2009.

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LONDON (AP) -- British tennis player Ross Hutchins has been diagnosed with cancer and says he hopes to return to the circuit before the end of the year after six months of chemotherapy.

The 27-year-old Hutchins has Hodgkin's lymphoma, a cancer of the white blood cells.

Hutchins won titles in Eastbourne and Delray Beach in 2012 with doubles partner Colin Fleming and also reached two other finals. He says "I have been staying very positive, and looking forward to getting back on court.''

Close friend Andy Murray dedicated his victory at the season-opening Brisbane International to Hutchins.

Hutchins says "it brought a tear to my eye. He has been very involved talking to me every day, with lots of encouragement.''

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