Chris Evert was born on December 21st, 1954

Written by: Victor Malone

Chris Evert: The Tennis Icon Who Dominated the Courts

Chris Evert, widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, is a household name synonymous with excellence and dominance on the court. With a staggering 18 major singles titles, including a record seven French Open titles and a joint-record six US Open titles tied with Serena Williams, Evert's impressive career spanned over two decades.

Early Life and Family

Born on December 21, 1954, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Chris Evert was raised in a committed Catholic household by her parents, Colette and Jimmy Evert. Her father, a professional tennis coach, played a significant role in shaping her early tennis career. Evert graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in 1973, laying the foundation for her future success.

Rise to Prominence

Evert's prodigious talent was evident from a young age, and she quickly rose through the ranks of junior tennis. Her first major breakthrough came in 1973, when she won the French Open, marking the beginning of an illustrious career. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Evert, alongside her greatest rival Martina Navratilova, dominated women's tennis, winning a staggering 34 major singles finals.

Achievements and Accolades

Evert's exceptional career is marked by numerous accolades, including:

• 18 major singles titles, including seven French Open titles and six US Open titles
• Ranked world No. 1 for 260 weeks
• Year-end world No. 1 singles player seven times (1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1980, and 1981)
• Won three major doubles titles, partnering with Navratilova and Olga Morozova
• Inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1995
• Awarded the Philippe Chatrier award

Impact on Modern Society

Chris Evert's influence extends beyond the tennis court. As a pioneering figure in women's sports, she has inspired countless young athletes and advocated for equality and women's rights. Her philanthropic efforts, including her work with the Chris Evert/Raymond James Pro-Celebrity Tennis Classic, have raised millions for charity.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Evert's approach to tennis and life is founded on a strong work ethic, discipline, and a never-give-up attitude. She has spoken about the importance of perseverance, citing her own experiences with setbacks and injuries as examples of resilience and determination.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

Throughout her career, Evert has navigated personal and professional challenges, including her high-profile marriage to John Lloyd and her subsequent divorce. Her experiences have shaped her perspective on life, tennis, and relationships, making her a sought-after mentor and role model.

Career Highlights and Major Works

Some of Evert's most notable career highlights include:

• Winning 13 consecutive years of at least one major title (1974-1986)
• Reaching the semifinals or better in 52 of the 56 majors she played
• Never losing in the first or second round of a major, and losing in the third round only twice

Legacy and Impact on Tennis

Chris Evert's lasting legacy is evident in the generation of tennis players she has inspired. Her impressive career statistics, including her 89.97% career winning percentage in singles matches (the second highest in the Open Era), continue to inspire and motivate athletes. As a tennis analyst for ESPN, Evert remains an integral part of the tennis world, sharing her expertise and insights with fans worldwide.

Trivia and Fun Facts

Did you know that Chris Evert:

• Has a line of tennis and active apparel?
• Served as president of the Women's Tennis Association for eleven years (1975-1976 and 1983-1991)?
• Has been an analyst for ESPN since 2011?