Legendary commentator Bruce McAvaney reveals cancer diagnosis

Legendary Channel Seven commentator Bruce McAvaney has revealed he has cancer.

The 63-year-old is suffering leukaemia, which is part of the reason why he chose not to call this year's Australian Open.

In a statement, the Sport Australia Hall of Fame inductee said the serious illness could "jump out of the ground" at any moment.

"I don’t expect it will. But I’m living a complete life with no restrictions," he said.

McAvaney was diagnosed with the form of cancer more than two years ago during a routine health check.

Despite feeling no ill effects after the diagnosis, the 63-year-old said he found felt "fatigued" at the end of a busy 2016, which included covering the AFL, Rio Olympic games and spring racing carnival.

McAvaney will continue to lead the Seven Network's football coverage as well as next year's Commonwealth Games and the Tokyo Olympics.

The commentator will also be back on air on Saturday to call the Golden Slipper from Sydney, should weather permit the event to go ahead.