The bond of Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova is quite well-known to those who are aware of tennis. They first met each other when they were teenagers and became rivals. Their relationship eventually evolved, and the two are each other’s closest friends now. Navratilova recently came out and explained how the two turned from rivals to friends. 

Their friendship is historic, and many outlets have covered them. The two have a rich history between them, and while there were some bad times, they always came forth to support each other, which could be seen when they helped each other through their cancer diagnoses. Now, months later, Navratilova dissects their bond.

Martina Navratilova elaborates on camaraderie with Chris Evert

The 18-time grand slam champion appeared on the most recent edition of ‘On with Kara Swisher’. In the podcast, she talked about her stance on trans inclusion in women’s sports, inequity in tennis pay, and more. She also talked about her friendship with Evert and how it evolved from a rivalry over time. She said that it mostly developed because it was over a long period. 

Navratilova said that Evert played close to her best. Even though she was called the ‘ice maiden’, one could see the aggression inside her heart. She further said, “So the contrast in everything definitely made people pick one side, you know, you couldn’t really be neutral.”

But the competition did evolve into a rivalry. “But I think as they saw, as our career developed, and even the friendship developed, maybe people were more like just appreciating us as athletes and as competitors rather than taking a side, you know, it was pretty special because it just came out of nowhere, sort of, and it just kept going and kept going.”

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As their friendship continued, the two also maintained their support of each other. Their bond has only improved over time, and the two also share glimpses of their bond with their followers on the internet. 

Evert shares a wish for Navratilova on a special day

When the year began, Navratilova received her second diagnosis of cancer. The situation became daunting for her as tackling it a second time became a challenge. But with appropriate medical help, she has managed to overcome it and celebrated her 67th birthday in October. While she did not have a huge party, she was congratulated by Chris Evert with a special message.

Evert wished her rival a Happy Birthday and said that she had inspired her with her strength, persistence, and principles. She ended the message by saying Navratilova has a huge heart, which she appreciates. The two have a great bond, as anyone can see on their social media. It has persisted through everything, and it will continue for a much longer time.

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