The legendary rivalry of two of the best women tennis players, Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, is not unheard of. The players played each other a whopping 80 times during their glorious careers. But no matter what, the players were and still are each other’s biggest cheerleaders.

Evert talked about the uniquely warm relationship the two opponents shared and how Navratilova was always there for her after losses and victories and vice versa.

Chris Evert on the special relationship with Martina Navratilova as competitors and friends

Chris Evert talked about their rivalry in 1989 when both the players had faced each other as many times as they would in their life. Evert looked back upon the nature of rivalry the two players shared. Despite being each other’s arch-rival, they never let the warmth subside between them.

Evert always received notes from Navratilova after her glorious victories and unfortunate losses. She complimented her opponent and said, “She’s just like that. Martina has always had a big heart.”

READ MORE: ‘Put the Racket There’ – Martina Navratilova’s Hilarious Response Once After Andre Agassi Launched a Forehand Into Mardy Fish’s Body

The players might have faced each other 80 times and undoubtedly there have been moments of agitation and frustration too. Nonetheless, the players always found a way back to each other which solidified their friendship.

Evert told the scenarios after their matches against each other.“We would both go back to the locker room,” she said. She stated, “One of us would be crying. The other would be comforting.” Adding, “She’s probably seen me cry more than anybody,” Evert defined the proximity of their friendship.

The legendary rivalry of Evert and Navratilova

The players met each other for the first time in Akron Ohio in 1973. They played 80 matches, out of which 60 were in the finals itself. Navratilova takes the winning lead in the matches by the ratio of 43:37 to Evert.

WATCH THIS STORY: ‘Seems to Get Injured a Lot’ – Martina Navratilova Once Used Serena Williams’ Example to Talk About the ‘Fragmented’ Nature of Women’s Tennis. 

Interestingly, both the players have 18 grand slam titles each under their name. The players continue to cherish their friendship as much as they respect their rivalry.