‘Didn’t Want to Bump Into Chrissie’ – Jimmy Connors Delved Upon a Freakish Coincidence Right After His Break-up With Chris Evert in 1977

Chris Evert and Jimmy Connors dated in the late 1970s. They were one of the most adored couples in the sport. Fans loved how the top players of both categories were romantically involved. In fact, they even performed a couple’s sweep at Wimbledon. It was like a fairy tale. Though things took a turn for the worse and the then to-be-married couple decided to part ways.

They had to adjust to the new norms, which was difficult for both. Especially because of the interwoven fixtures of the WTA and ATP Tours. But they knew all along they would have to deal with it if something goes wrong. However, what came as surprise was an issue that no one would anticipate. Connors had to opt for a not-so-common method to tackle the same. 

Jimmy Connors about encountering Chris Evert post break-up

Connors, in his autobiography, detailed how after his breakup, when he finally decided to move on, his life again got intertwined with Evert’s. He said, in his memoir that was released in 2013, “I also had a new girlfriend, who just happened to live in the same apartment building as Chrissie. Right down the street from my place.”

Thereafter, the eight-time Grand Slam champion added, “That was… interesting. I still wanted to keep my private life private, so there was a lot of sneaking around.”

Read more: ‘You Can See the Whites in Her Eyes’ – Chris Evert Once Narrated a Spooky ‘Aura Reader’ Tale and How She Enjoyed the Whole Process

Connors said, “I really didn’t want to bump into Chrissie; it would have been awkward for both of us.” The former world no.1s called off their marriage in what was a surprising turn of events for their fans. When Connors released his memoir in 2013, he was heavily criticized for revealing very personal information about Evert. In his memoir, he accused Evert of going for an abortion without his consent when they were engaged.

Evert’s failed marriages

After parting ways with Connors, the 18-time Grand Slam champion tried to find her soulmate in the British tennis professional John Lloyd. However, their relationship started getting affected by the difference in their success, and eventually, they decided to walk out of the marriage.

Watch this story: Chris Evert looks back at her astounding rivalry with Martina Navratilova and the negative impact of her 13-match losing streak

Thereafter, Evert exchanged vows with Olympic ski racer, Andy Mill. They stayed together for around 18 years and welcomed three children. Though, things turned sour, and the veteran developed married Greg Norman. They tied the knot in 2008 but in a few months, difficulties started pestering them, and they filed for divorce.

Although Evert has suffered three failed marriages, she has expressed her content in being with her children, who have all found their niche in varied fields.