The legendary rivalry on the tennis court between Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, both 18-time Grand Slam champions, has evolved into a strong bond of support as they battled cancer together.

In a touching 90-minute documentary, “Chris & Martina: The Final Set,” available on Netflix, the duo openly share their personal journeys fighting ovarian, breast, and throat cancer, highlighting how their friendship flourished during tough times.

Reflecting on their shared cancer experiences, Chris, aged 71, emphasized the deepening of their friendship, stating that their bond has become unbreakable after going through the highs and lows of their health battles together.

Chris, from Florida, and Martina, who defected from Czechoslovakia, acknowledged that their fight against cancer was more challenging than any tennis match they ever played. Chris has been cancer-free since July 2024 after her second bout of ovarian cancer, while Martina, 69, received the all-clear from throat and breast cancer in March 2023.

The documentary, directed by Rebecca Gitlitz, touches on their professional rivalry in the ’70s and ’80s but primarily focuses on their journey starting in summer 2023, when Martina sought treatment in New York for stage one throat cancer and early-stage breast cancer.

Their emotional struggles, shared moments, and mutual support during treatment and recovery are portrayed in the documentary, showcasing the strength of their friendship amidst adversity.

Both Chris and Martina now cherish a more serene perspective on life post-cancer, with Chris emphasizing the importance of spirituality and letting go of control when faced with life-altering challenges.

Their historic tennis rivalry, spanning from 1973 to 1988, reshaped women’s tennis, with Martina clinching significant victories, including memorable encounters like the 1978 Wimbledon final. Their impact on the sport was immense, with both holding the No. 1 ranking for a substantial period and achieving remarkable success in their careers.

The shared experiences of battling cancer have brought Chris and Martina closer, leading them to treasure their time and relationships more deeply. While they have conquered their health challenges, their focus now lies on family and personal connections, with no plans for a competitive tennis rematch in the future.

“Chris & Martina: The Final Set” is set to premiere on Netflix on Friday, June 26, offering viewers a poignant glimpse into the enduring friendship and resilience of these tennis legends.