![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-667523713.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
American tennis players Martina Navratilova (left) and Chris Evert-Lloyd with the trophies, after Evert beat Navratilova to win the Women’s Singles title at the French Open, Stade Roland Garros, Paris, 7th June 1986. Evert won the match 2-6, 6-3, 6-3. (Photo by Trevor Jones/Getty Images)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-667523713.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
American tennis players Martina Navratilova (left) and Chris Evert-Lloyd with the trophies, after Evert beat Navratilova to win the Women’s Singles title at the French Open, Stade Roland Garros, Paris, 7th June 1986. Evert won the match 2-6, 6-3, 6-3. (Photo by Trevor Jones/Getty Images)
Only a few names in the world of tennis inspire as much awe and excitement as Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova. These legendary players have left an indelible mark on the game and have inspired generations of players with their unique skills and fierce competitiveness. One person who knows them well, both on and off the court is none other than Tennis Hall of Famer, Pam Shriver.
Recently, on an engaging tennis podcast called “The Craig Shapiro Tennis Podcast,” she revealed that her deep connection with these icons goes far beyond quick rapid fire reactions
Pam Shriver and Martina Navratilova’s unparalleled bond
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In a fun single-word game on “The Craig Shapiro Tennis Podcast,” Pam Shriver was asked about Martina Navratilova. Instead of sticking to one word, she expressed her love and appreciation for her long-term partner and friend. Pam said, “Greatest, and the reason I’m in the Hall of Fame.” Pam Shriver’s words showed how much Martina Navratilova meant to her and how their partnership led to a successful career that eventually helped her win an Olympic gold medal and landed her in the WTA Tennis Hall of Fame.
As the podcast went on, the host threw the name “Chrissy” into the mix, referring to none other than the tennis legend Chris Evert, who was Pam Shriver’s fierce rival and dear friend. Soon instead of a one word would answer, Shriver’s words overflowed with sincerity, utter respect and emotion. “Why did I approach her backhand so much?” she chuckled, reminiscing about the intense battles they fought on the court. But then, Pam couldn’t help but let her heart speak, “Chrissy, can I just say I know it’s supposed to be one word, those two, what they’ve been through medically the last year…”
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Friendship beyond the court
Shriver then described how deeply moved she was by an article in The Washington Post that highlighted their enduring friendship and described their hardships. She revealed, “Their story continues. The greatest rivalry in sports continues with this amazing friendship and shared difficult relationships. I have so much admiration for them both.” As the podcast went on, it became clear that beyond the fierce competition, these elite tennis players have formed a bond that transcends the game itself. Pam Shriver’s passion for her fellow competitors is proof of the unique friendship among these tennis legends.
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Pam Shriver’s heartfelt tribute on “The Craig Shapiro Tennis Podcast” reveals the deep connections tennis players have on and off the court. While the game may have strayed from the rapid-fire genre, it was a testament to the inseparable bond between Pam Shriver, Martina Navratilova, and Chris Evert.
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