Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert have been linked by one of the greatest rivalries in sports history, with 80 matches played over four decades.

What happened?

The tennis legends recently shared a different chapter of their relationship in 'The Final Set', a Netflix documentary that explores their intertwined careers and parallel battles with cancer.

Navratilova's cancer diagnosis required the same mindset that fueled her rise to the top of the tennis world.

She said, "You just put one foot in front of the other, that's what cancer treatment is about, you literally take it day by day."

Why it matters for Martina Navratilova

Evert, who was diagnosed with Stage 1 ovarian cancer in 2021, echoed Navratilova's perspective, viewing herself as one of millions facing a similar challenge.

Evert said, "I'm just like everybody else, you just have to keep going and not feel sorry for yourself."

The documentary revisits some of the defining moments of their rivalry, including the emotional 1984 US Open final.

What comes next?

Navratilova felt the New York crowd was overwhelmingly against her despite winning the championship.

Evert acknowledged the difficult dynamic, noting that fans often rallied behind underdogs during Navratilova's dominant stretch atop the sport.

Looking back, both legends believe their rivalry elevated their careers and the game itself.

Navratilova said, "We would have won more, but we would not have been as good tennis players, we made each other better."

Their impact extended beyond championships, as pioneers in women's sports, Evert and Navratilova helped elevate women's tennis into a global attraction.

Today, their priorities look different, with Evert wanting to spend time with her two-year-old grandson and Navratilova focusing on keeping up with her young children.

Evert said, "Living, that's what excites me most about the future."

Navratilova's focus on her family is a testament to her growth as a person and an athlete.

The documentary 'The Final Set' is now available on Netflix, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of two tennis legends.

Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert's story is one of perseverance, friendship, and the power of sports to transcend adversity.