“I wanted roots and he wanted wings” – When Chris Evert talked about her divorce with ex-husband Greg Norman

Chris Evert’s marriage to Greg Norman, though brief, was marked by emotional upheaval, life transitions, and personal reflections that ultimately defined its downfall. The couple’s union, which lasted just 15 months, stood in stark contrast to the public excitement surrounding their relationship. Evert’s famous phrase, “I wanted roots, and he wanted wings,” succinctly captures the essence of their differences—her desire for stability versus his longing for freedom.

Background and Emotional Conflict
The relationship with Norman was not just a new beginning for Evert; it came with emotional baggage from her previous marriage to Andy Mill, a former Olympic skier. Evert’s marriage to Mill had lasted 18 years, and the couple shared three children. However, Evert ended that marriage to pursue a relationship with Norman, who had been one of Mill’s closest friends. This transition brought complications. Evert later admitted that guilt over leaving Mill followed her into her new marriage with Norman, casting a shadow on their relationship.

While Evert was seeking emotional security and deeper family connections—what she termed “roots”—Norman was drawn to a lifestyle of exploration and independence. This fundamental difference in priorities created friction between the two. Norman’s adventurous spirit clashed with Evert’s yearning for a grounded family life, contributing to the emotional distance that eventually led to their separation.

Impact on Family Life
One of the most challenging aspects for Evert during this period was her strained relationship with her children. Engrossed in her new relationship with Norman, Evert felt disconnected from her sons, a situation that deeply troubled her. She later expressed how difficult it was to feel separated from them during that time, noting that the relationship had, in a way, made her lose sight of her role as a mother.

When the marriage with Norman ended, Evert turned to travel and personal reflection as part of her healing process. Spending time in Aspen during her recovery, she reconnected with her children and found solace in restoring those bonds. This period of healing helped her regain a sense of purpose, emphasizing the importance of family in her life.

The End of the Marriage
Their marriage officially ended in December 2009, marking a quiet but significant chapter in both their lives. Evert expressed shock at the sudden end, admitting that she never imagined it would dissolve so quickly. The divorce was not publicly contentious; rather, it highlighted the natural divergence of two people with different outlooks and life goals.

Norman moved on quickly, marrying interior designer Kirsten Kutner in 2010. Meanwhile, Evert continued her journey of self-rediscovery, engaging in counseling and finding fulfillment in new ways. She has reflected on the lessons learned from her marriage to Norman, acknowledging that their differing priorities were insurmountable. However, she also expressed no ill will toward him, focusing instead on personal growth and her renewed relationships with family and friends.

Reflection and Moving Forward
Looking back, Evert describes the experience as a period of emotional growth. Despite the turbulence, she emerged with greater clarity about what she values most—her family, stability, and personal contentment. Her story is a reminder of the complexities that come with love and the importance of aligning life goals in relationships. Evert’s openness about the challenges she faced during this chapter has resonated with many, illustrating the realities of balancing personal desires, relationships, and family responsibilities.

Today, Evert has found peace with the past. She maintains a close relationship with her children and remains focused on her roles as a tennis commentator and advocate. Though her marriage with Norman was short-lived, it served as a profound learning experience that shaped her outlook on relationships, priorities, and the importance of staying true to oneself.