Iga Swiatek and Carlos Alcaraz were the favorites to win the French Open title in their respective categories. Both players accomplished what they set out to do when they began their Roland Garros campaign. Alcaraz became the youngest player to win Grand Slams on all three surfaces (clay, grass, and hard court). Swiatek completed her 3-peat, and the Pole won her 4th French Open title! Historic? Yes. But not for some.

Their marvelous feat fell short of a fan’s expectation, as they compared the youngsters to the previous generation of tennis greats. And Chris Evert stood up for the recently crowned champion, with her firm words! As the French Open has concluded with historical feats and some controversies, fans are happy for Swiatek and Alcaraz they are not satisfied with the process, that is the final matches.

One fan took to Twitter to criticize the match and compare it with Serena Williams, and the Big 3. They questioned on X, “Congrats to both, but I wouldn’t say either of them has brought a ‘higher level to the game‘. Serena at her best? Roger, Rafa, Novak?”  Though everyone has their preferences and biases towards the ‘level of the game’, as the famous saying goes, “Comparison is the thief of all joys,” and takes away the essence from the best results!

Consequently, the tennis veteran, Chris Evert, came out in support of Swiatek and Alcaraz. And she had just one thing to say to the pessimistic thought of the fan, “I would!”

Being the champion in her days, Evert understands the struggle of the player and the hard work put in to stand at the top. Moreover, The young stars are laying the foundation of their tennis career. Hence to judge them in the same thought as the Big 3 and Serena may not be the right thing to do. The career span of the latter stars extended over 2 decades with Rafa and Djokovic yet to say their goodbyes to their professional career!

Moreover, this is not the first time, that Evert has stood by the upcoming tennis generation as they try to make their mark on the racquet sport. 

Chris Evert supported Iga Swiatek during her victory speech 

Iga Swiatek is the most dominant female player on the court right now. However, as confident as her volleys are on the court, speeches still make the introvert Pole fumble. And the same thing happened during the French Open victory ceremony. While addressing the crowd in Paris, Swiatek was unable to find the right words to convey her feelings and emotions to the fans sitting.

And when she took a pause, Chris Evert gave her a few words of wisdom, which the World No.1 acknowledged as she carried on with thanks. “Okay, I got something from the pros, all better, Merci Beaucoup. I was almost out of the tournament in the second round…” said Swaitek 

As the new generation of tennis players grows and breaks the records, they can certainly count on the former pros to have their back. And guide them through tough times.

What are your thoughts about the final matches of the Women’s and Men’s categories at the French Open? Do let us know in the comments!