It was the 1975 US Open. Fresh from winning the French Open earlier that year, Chris Evert was one of the favorites to lift her maiden title on her home turf. She was the top seed at that tournament and didn’t disappoint as she dominated her opponents to clinch the US Open trophy. It was a historic win for her following which she added five more titles in New York to make it six US Open victories. Years later, Evert has revealed what inspired her to US Open glory.

With the last Grand Slam of the season just days away, players are putting in the hard work day in and day out to shine on the big stage. Meanwhile, Evert got together for an interview where she talked about a variety of subjects. Here’s what she said about winning the US Open six times.

Chris Evert makes a candid confession

During an interview with Rolex, the 18-time Grand Slam champion was asked what was it about playing in her native country that resulted in a massive success for her. Answering that question, Evert reminisced about the glory days as she made an honest revelation.

Talking about this, she said, “Playing at home was always so special due to the New York crowd and Arthur Ashe Stadium. While every year was different, there were new and exciting qualities in every tournament I played there. Winning six times in my home country is something that will always stay with me.”

Further, Evert went on to credit the brilliant memories she made all along while playing in New York that inspired her to come back and give her best. Recently, her unique 5-decade-old record came to light as her greatness will be celebrated at the upcoming US Open.

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When Evert got featured in Sports Illustrated

In 1976, fresh from winning the Wimbledon Championships and the US Open, the American tennis legend received a massive honor as she got SI’s prestigious Sportsperson of the Year award. Additionally, it was the first time in history that the award was handed to a woman player solely. It was a stepping stone for the female sporting movement, as other players like Serena Williams and Megan Rapinoe followed suit by winning the award solely.

What do you think of Evert’s brilliant contribution to women’s sports in general and tennis in particular? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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