‘A Gladiator-Like Competition…Other Than No One Dies’ – When Martina Navratilova Issued a Befitting Statement on the Hardships of Tennis

Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert, through their intense rivalry, brought recognition to WTA tournaments at a time when women’s sports weren’t preferred by many. They not only built flawless careers for themselves but also developed a rivalry that is still unmatched in the realm of tennis.

The difference in their playing style and their on-court presence attracted fans. Further, the will with which they played kept the spectators on the edge of their seats. Thus, presenting near-perfect combat, where the results were always unpredictable and change in flow and dominance was common. Here’s what Navratilova had to say about the same and the sport in general.

Martina Navratilova once opened up about the fierceness of tennis

Navratilova was left behind when her greatest rival, Chris Evert, walked out of the sport. She realized how her presence affected her game and brought the best out of her. Therefore, in a 2014 interview with Evert by her side, she said, ” [in 1989] You retired, so that changed everything. Because it had always been such a one-on-one situation.”

Thereafter, the 18-time Grand Slam champion added, “I didn’t realise until I was doing commentary what a gladiator-like competition tennis is. Other than no one dies.”

“The crowd is waiting for the players to come, and they walk through the tunnel, and they get on the court, and they get out their rackets, their weapons, and now they start.”

Read more: Despite $10 Million Loss, Iconic Champion Martina Navratilova Bravely Endured Public Hate Owing to a Crucial Life Decision: ‘Not Going to Deny My True Nature’

According to the nine-time Wimbledon champion, tennis gives similar vibes as with every clash the one who incurs defeat walks out of the tournament. Also, the fans are often divided on the matter of which player is more competent and deserves victory.

Navratilova vs. Evert – a rivalry for the ages

The former World no.1s ruled the courts during their playing days and were the only ones who could pose a genuine threat to the other’s talent. Their rivalry started in the late 70s when the Czech-American was forging a grip over the sport. At first, the seven-time French Open champion dominated the clashes. In fact, she outclassed Navratilova in 16 out of their initial 20 clashes.

It prompted Navratilova to lose weight, hire a new coach and polish her skills. Navratilova not only bridged the gap but by the end of Evert’s career she had a lead in the head to head, 43-37. The classic serve-and-volley style of Navratilova was ideal for both grass and hard courts. However, she couldn’t topple Evert’s dominant baseline style of play in clay courts.

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