‘How Can You Be Mean to an Innocent Girl?’ – Chris Evert Details How Hall of Famer Billie Jean King Lashed Out at WTA Stars Owing to Their Ill-Treatment Towards Her

The legendary Chris Evert, during her famed career, had many famous rivalries, with hers against Martina Navratilova taking the top spot. She also competed against Billie Jean King, another one of tennis’ legendary players. Evert once spoke about how Billie Jean King supported and defended her when she was new to the sport.

Billie Jean King once defended Chris Evert 

King recognized Evert’s potential as a future legend of the sport. The two players went on to play in 26 matches against each other, with Evert triumphing in 19 of those. In a recent interview, Chris Evert spoke about how King stood up for her during her tennis career when other players were envious of Chris.

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Evert was resented in the locker room, and she explains how King defended her. The 18-time Grand Slam champion said, “She told them: ‘Chris is going to bring more money to tennis and she’ll put money in your pocket.’ Also, how can you be mean to an innocent girl of 16? Billie Jean set them straight. It was lonely but my mom travelled with me and after matches I went back to my room and did my homework.”

Evert proved King right through her legendary tennis career

Evert won 18 Grand Slam singles titles during her prime. She still holds the record for winning the most US Open titles (six) along with Serena Williams, and her win percentage (1,309-148) is the best in history among both male and female players.

Evert won 157 singles titles, and secured at least won major title for an incredible thirteen years in a row on the WTA tour. She was never ranked below number 2 in the world for 11 years, from 1975 to 1986. Over the course of her career, she built an iconic rivalry with her close friend Martina Navratilova. Many consider this rivalry as the best in the history of the sport, as the two legendary champions clashed regularly for the biggest titles in women’s tennis for close to fifteen years.

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