Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova are two of the biggest names in women’s tennis history. The pair were rivals on the court for decades. But when they didn’t have racquets in their hands, they became very good friends. The women sat down with People to share their story ahead of Netflix’s new documentary Chris & Martina: The Final Set. They shared their deep respect for one another as athletes, women, and friends. Both Chris and Martina have battled cancer and stayed by each other’s side. Chris recently shared that her ovarian cancer had returned.
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“It wasn’t something we needed to get closer to each other, but knowing the other one’s there and knows what you feel like, it’s like you’re not alone anymore. She was there for me, I was there for her,” Martina said.
Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova Understand Each Other’s Lives
When women share experiences, they grow closer. Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova know what it means to live in the spotlight and how to balance a private life. Shortly after Martina Navratilova completed her throat and breast cancer treatment, Chris Evert told Martina Navratilova her cancer had returned.
As soon as she could, Martina made it to Chris’ home with a special homemade soup and the love she needed to help her get through a tough day.
“I always say if I was ever going to be in the trenches with someone during something like this, it would be Martina, because she’s so fricking tough. She’s mushy, but she looks at things straight on: ‘This is what it is. I’m going to attack it.’ You’d never want a friend to have cancer with you, but it’s comforting that somebody understands what you’re going through.”
This story’s featured image is by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Tribeca Festival
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