There have been some brilliant rivalries in tennis. As we look back in history, Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova were one of the best rivals of their time. However, at times there comes a phase in any player’s career when they go on losing matches to one particular opponent. Even though their performance is outstanding otherwise. Such was the case with former American tennis star Pam Shriver.

However, when she won against Chris Evert, after 17 losses, Evert was graceful enough to send a handwritten note in appreciation of her compatriot.

Pam Shriver wanted Serena Williams to do a similar gesture for Maria Sharapova

Back in 2013, Serena Williams was in stunning form. The American was going to face the world number 2 Maria Sharapova. While Sharapova herself was in great form back then, her record against Serena Williams was particularly poor. The Russian had lost the last thirteen matches she played against Serena Williams. The situation reminded Shriver of her and Evert’s rivalry. She took to her Twitter account to share the note that Evert wrote her.

The note read, “Pam, thank you for being a gracious winner. It showed character. Good luck tomorrow, you deserved today. Keep it up, we need you. (As an American, to emerge and blossom. It’s time…”

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Sharing the note on Twitter, the former tennis star wrote, “This from @ChrissieEvert written 25 yrs ago after my 1st win after 17 losses. Could this happen 2day sw & ms.”

Read more: ‘I Was in a Fog’ – Chris Evert Delves Deep Into the Shock She Experienced After Depressing Cancer News

Serena, however, won the match and secured her second French Open title, continuing her winning streak against Sharapova.

Chris Evert on Serena Williams’ retirement

As the 40-year-old retires from tennis, Evert believes it was the right time for Serena to stop. Serena has donned different hats recently. She is a venture capitalist and also a mother now. Evert noted that Serena recently lost to players who she would have defeated normally.

The 67-year-old also pointed out that Serena has been falling constantly in the ranks and it would be a perfect time for her to retire from the game.

Watch this story: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, and Others In The Greatest Comebacks in Tennis

Notably, the 40-year-old hung her racket after ending on the losing side of her third-round match in the US Open 2022. The American earlier announced that she will end her career after the ongoing season.