Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova: A Rivalry Defined by Respect and Resilience

Few rivalries in the history of professional sports have transcended the boundaries of their discipline like that of Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova. For over a decade, these two tennis titans dominated the WTA Tour, meeting a staggering 80 times in professional competition. Now, a new Netflix documentary, Chris & Martina: The Final Set, offers an intimate look at their enduring bond, professional evolution, and the personal battles that shaped their lives off the court.

The Greatest Rivalry in Tennis History

Between 1973 and 1988, Evert and Navratilova met in 14 Grand Slam finals. Their contrast in styles—Evert’s methodical, baseline consistency versus Navratilova’s aggressive, serve-and-volley dominance—created the perfect competitive friction. While the media often painted them as bitter enemies, the reality was a profound, mutual respect that fueled their respective greatness.

The documentary explores the high-pressure environment of the 1970s and 80s, a period that saw the professionalization of women’s tennis. As they battled for world number one rankings, they also navigated the social expectations of the era, ultimately becoming pioneers for the modern game.

Beyond the Baseline: Life After the Rivalry

What makes The Final Set particularly compelling is its focus on the post-career years. The film documents how their relationship evolved from fierce competitors to close confidantes. A significant portion of the narrative centers on their shared experiences with health, specifically their respective battles with cancer.

In recent years, both legends have faced public health challenges. Navratilova was diagnosed with both throat and breast cancer in early 2023, while Evert has navigated multiple rounds of treatment for ovarian cancer. Their support for one another during these life-altering events serves as the emotional core of the film, highlighting that their greatest match wasn’t played on center court, but in the resilience of their friendship.

Key Takeaways from the Documentary

• Unprecedented Longevity: The pair played 80 matches against each other, with Navratilova holding a 43–37 career head-to-head advantage.
• Evolution of Sport: The film provides archival footage that illustrates the drastic evolution of tennis equipment, training, and the professionalization of the WTA.
• Shared Vulnerability: The documentary shifts the narrative from their on-court dominance to their shared strength while facing cancer diagnoses.
• Mutual Growth: Insights into how their rivalry forced each player to constantly innovate and improve their technical skills to stay ahead of the other.

Why This Story Matters Today

In an era where sports media often focuses on short-term headlines, Chris & Martina: The Final Set reminds us of the long-term impact athletes can have on one another. The documentary is a testament to the power of female friendship in professional sports, proving that rivalry does not have to preclude deep, enduring affection.

For tennis fans, the footage is a nostalgic trip through the golden era of the sport. For a broader audience, it is a humanizing look at two women who carried the weight of a sport on their shoulders and emerged as icons of grace, and fortitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times did Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova play each other?

The two legends faced off a total of 80 times in professional tournaments, with Martina Navratilova winning 43 matches and Chris Evert winning 37.

Where can I watch ‘Chris & Martina: The Final Set’?

The documentary is available for streaming on Netflix, following its acquisition and production by the platform as part of their ongoing sports documentary slate.

Is this documentary only about their tennis matches?

No, while their tennis careers provide the foundation, the documentary primarily focuses on their personal lives, their evolution as human beings, and how they supported each other through significant personal health struggles later in life.

As a seasoned sports journalist who has covered the evolution of the WTA for decades, I find this documentary to be a vital piece of sports history. It captures not just the statistics, but the humanity of the icons who built the foundation of modern tennis.