Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert, the greatest rivals in women’s tennis, have become unlikely allies in the fight against cancer. Their Netflix documentary *Chris & Martina: The Final Set* details how the 18-time Grand Slam champions—Evert diagnosed in 2021, Navratilova in 2022—leaned on each other through treatment, only for Evert to reveal a recurrence last week.
How did their rivalry turn into friendship?
Their first match in 1973, when Evert beat Navratilova at age 18, set the stage. Navratilova, then 16, impressed Evert with her power and speed. "She had so much talent," Evert recalled. "Her hands were quick, her first serve big, her forehand unstoppable." Two years later, Navratilova defected to the U.S. after losing a U.S. Open semifinal to Evert, sparking a rivalry that defined an era.
Why their cancer battle matters for Navratilova
Navratilova called Evert "the epitome of cool"—a rivalry built on mutual respect. When both faced cancer, their bond deepened. "We have such a level of trust," Navratilova said. "No ulterior motive, no playing games." Evert’s ovarian cancer recurrence, disclosed late last week, underscores their shared fight. Navratilova’s throat and breast cancer treatment left her "literally sitting on a yoga mat for seven weeks"—too weak even for basic stretches.
What their support looks like today
Their friendship isn’t performative. Evert jokes, "I can’t get away from her—we had a 15-year career, then cancer at the same time." Navratilova’s team sent baked bread; Evert gifted jewelry. "We don’t need daily calls," Evert said. "We just know we’re there." Their documentary, *The Final Set*, captures this raw honesty—no grand gestures, just two legends fighting side by side.
What comes next for Navratilova?
Navratilova remains in remission, but Evert’s recurrence adds urgency. "My treatment was harder physically," Navratilova admitted. "Chris’s was more life-threatening." Their bond, forged on courts and now in hospitals, proves that even legends need allies. The documentary’s release—timed with Evert’s latest diagnosis—highlights how their story transcends tennis.