The documentary opens on Martina Navratilova walking into the David Koch Centre for Cancer Care in 2023 for a check-up after an earlier breast and throat cancer diagnosis and treatment. This stark, personal moment sets the tone for Rebecca Gitlitz's film, which balances the gravity of Navratilova's health battles with the warmth of her enduring friendship with Chris Evert.
A Rivalry Transformed into Friendship
The film traces the arc of one of tennis's greatest rivalries. Navratilova and Evert faced each other 60 times on the professional circuit, with Navratilova leading 43–37. But off the court, their relationship evolved from fierce competition to deep mutual respect and eventually, a close friendship. Gitlitz uses archival footage and candid interviews to show how their bond strengthened over decades, especially during Navratilova's cancer journey.
According to the documentary, Evert was one of the first people Navratilova called after her diagnosis. The film includes emotional scenes of the two talking about mortality, resilience, and the importance of having someone who truly understands you. Evert says in the film, "When Martina called me, I felt helpless, but I knew I had to be there for her, just as she has been for me."
Martina's Cancer Battle
The documentary does not shy away from the harsh realities of cancer treatment. It shows Navratilova undergoing radiation, grappling with fatigue, and confronting her own fears. She recalls, "The hardest part was not knowing if I would ever play tennis again, or if I would even be here." The film also highlights her advocacy for early detection and regular screenings, a message she now champions passionately.
Gitlitz interweaves Navratilova's medical journey with her storied career, reminding viewers of her 18 Grand Slam singles titles and her activism for LGBTQ+ rights. The documentary underscores how her fighting spirit on the court translated into her battle against cancer.
A Winning Serve
Critics have praised the film for its intimate storytelling and emotional depth. Our rating: 4 out of 5. The documentary succeeds because it focuses on the human story behind the headlines. It's not just about tennis; it's about love, loss, and the unbreakable bonds that form when two people share a lifetime of experiences.
The film's final act shows Navratilova returning to the tennis court, albeit not competitively, symbolizing her triumph over illness. As she says in the closing moments, "Every match I've ever played prepared me for this fight."
'Chris & Martina: The Final Set' is streaming on Netflix. It is a must-watch for tennis fans and anyone seeking a story of courage and friendship.
