Martina Navratilova’s Emotional Decision to Involve Chris Evert in Iga Swiatek’s French Open Coronation Will Melt Your Heart

Iga Swiatek made quick work of Jasmine Paolini in the French Open final. The Polish player managed to win her fourth Roland-Garros, and her trophy presentation included two legends to help her celebrate, although one was not scheduled to appear. Swiatek’s trophy presentation saw Martina Navratilova inviting Chris Evert to celebrate an anniversary for Evert.

While only Navratilova was supposed to present the trophy, she could not leave out her close friend on the special occasion. Chris Evert is a legend of the French Open, and she won her first victory in 1974. Navratilova wanted to celebrate the anniversary. Watching the special moment, Jon Wertheim, tennis journalist, wrote,

“She will hate me for writing this but @Martinawas supposed to present the winner’s trophy and felt it only appropriate that -on the 50th anniversary of her first title here – @ChrissieEvert join her. What a lovely touch. These two are simply the best… #rolandgarros.“

Evert has won the French Open 7 times, giving her the most titles in the tournament. Swiatek has won her fourth title, coming slightly closer to touching Evert’s record. The 2024 champion is tied with Justine Henin for 4 titles and succeeded by Steffi Graf, who has won the slam 6 times. Although the seven-time champion came out to give Swiatek the trophy, her comments during the match showed a slight bias against the Pole.

Evert was flamed by fans for stating Coco Gauff could have given Swiatek a bigger challenge despite her loss to the champion in the semifinal. However, she has also moved beyond the bias, as she believes the 22-year-old has the ability to break her record as well.