Chris & Martina: The Final Set is a new Netflix documentary that chronicles the intertwined lives of two of tennis’s most iconic figures. Directed by Rebecca Gitlitz and produced by Jenna Ricker, the film revisits the decades‑long battle between Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova—an era in which they jointly ruled the women’s tour from 1975 to 1987, holding the world‑number‑one spot for all but 23 weeks. The documentary interweaves vintage match footage with recent interviews, offering a personal lens on how their on‑court rivalry blossomed into an off‑court friendship forged through shared adversity—specifically, their battles with cancer.
The Rivalry Reimagined
When the cameras roll, viewers are treated to a seamless volley between the electric rallies of the 1970s and ’80s and the present‑day conversations of the two champions. The film highlights how the pair’s contrasting styles—Evert’s measured, baseline precision versus Navratilova’s explosive, net‑charging aggression—made them perfect foils. Their rivalry pushed each other to the limit, and the documentary shows how those fierce battles fueled a decade‑long dominance of the WTA rankings.
Cancer, Courage, and Shared History
Beyond the baseline drama, Chris & Martina: The Final Set delves into the personal journeys of both athletes as survivors. The film captures intimate moments where Evert and Navratilova discuss their diagnoses, treatments, and the unexpected strength they draw from each other. Their shared experience transforms the narrative from a mere sports recap into a testament to resilience. The documentary emphasizes that their partnership—whether on the court or in the waiting room—is rooted in mutual respect and a common desire to overcome life’s toughest serves.
Media Narrative and Gender Dynamics
The documentary does not shy away from examining how the media shaped public perception of the two stars. Evert is portrayed as the “all‑American girl” with a wholesome image, while Navratilova is cast as the rebellious force from a socialist nation, unafraid to live openly as a lesbian at a time when such honesty could jeopardize a career. The film notes how commentators sometimes patronized Evert with labels like “Little Chrissy Evert,” and how Navratilova’s openness about her sexuality was groundbreaking, especially when other icons such as Billie Jean King faced backlash. These observations underline how the rivalry was not only athletic but also a cultural battleground for gender norms and media representation.
The 1984 U.S. Open Showdown
A pivotal segment of the film revisits the 1984 U.S. Open final, a match that epitomizes the tension between the two legends. Navratilova’s victory that day is depicted with nuanced detail: the crowd’s almost silent reaction underscores the lingering bias toward an “ideal” champion. The documentary captures Navratilova’s gratitude toward her supporters in the stands, as well as Evert’s visible devastation after letting a first‑set lead slip away. This moment is used to illustrate the psychological weight of repeatedly facing the same opponent—each win or loss carries the power to redefine a player’s legacy in the eyes of fans and media alike.
Legacy and Mutual Respect
As the film draws toward its conclusion, the former rivals sit together, watching old footage and reflecting on their journey. The tone is warm, with little trace of bitterness. Instead, the documentary highlights a deep‑seated kinship—an enduring bond formed through countless matches, shared adversity, and a mutual understanding that competition does not have to be hostile. The final message resonates: after more than a decade of battling each other, both women have learned not to let anyone else dictate their self‑worth.
Where to Watch
Chris & Martina: The Final Set streams exclusively on Netflix starting June 26. Viewers can experience the blend of sports history, personal struggle, and heartfelt camaraderie that makes this documentary a standout in the genre.
