PICTURE: Chris Evert celebrates Christmas Eve with girls from her tennis academy
Chris Evert shared a group photograph featuring herself alongside the female trainees and coaches at The Evert Tennis Academy. The American tennis legend praised the trainees' dedication to the sport and commended them for attending practice on Christmas Eve.
Established in 1996 by Chris Evert and her brother John, The Evert Tennis Academy in Boca Raton, Florida, is an NCAA-approved facility that seamlessly integrates academic pursuits with elite tennis training through its partnership with IMG Academy. Moreover, former Wimbledon quarterfinalist Ajla Tomljanović, former US Open finalist Madison Keys, and 2003 US Open champion Andy Roddick, are some of its alumni.
Evert often offers fans a glimpse into her academy through social media. The 70-year-old recently celebrated Christmas Eve with the trainees there. She shared a picture on Instagram and wrote:
"Proud of Evert Tennis Academy girls for showing up for Christmas Eve practice."
Chris Evert made her debut at the 1971 US Open at just 16, advancing to the semifinals. She went on to build an illustrious career, securing 18 Grand Slams, including seven French Open and six US Open titles. Moreover, the American legend secured 157 tour-level titles and achieved an exceptional win-loss record of 1,309-146 during her career.
Evert recently celebrated her 70th birthday with prominent tennis figures wishing her on the occasion.
Chris Evert receives heartfelt birthday wishes from Billie Jean King, Tracy Austin, and Martina Navratilova
Chris Evert marked her 70th birthday on Saturday, December 21. Two-time Major champion Tracy Austin posted a heartfelt tribute on X, lauding Evert as a role model and source of inspiration.
Evert graciously responded, writing:
"Thank you, Tracy!❤️❤️❤️"
12-time Major champion Billie Jean King also wrote down a touching note for Evert.
"On this day in 1954, a future tennis legend was born! Happy birthday to 18x Grand Slam singles champion, the first woman athlete to be @SInow's sole recipient of the "Sportsperson of the Year" award, and our dear friend, @ChrissieEvert!" She wrote.
Evert responded:
"thank you Billie and Ilana! ❤️❤️❤️"
Martina Navratilova, once Evert's fiercest rival on the court and holding a 43-37 lead in their head-to-head record, also shared her wishes on X.
"Happy 70th today to my friend, nemesis, partner and most of all an amazing, strong, resilient and compassionate woman, champion of champions! Lots of love, m.Here is looking at you, kid:). @ChrissieEvert," the 68-year-old wrote.
Evert reciprocated the sentiment by writing:
"Luv ya back @Martina.
On October 18, 2024, Evert extended her warm wishes to Navratilova on the occasion of her 68th birthday.