Chris Evert

Chris Evert is an American former professional tennis player widely regarded as one of the greatest in the sport’s history.

She won 18 Grand Slam singles titles and was known for her consistency and two-handed backhand.

What it is

Chris Evert, born Christine Marie Evert on December 21, 1954, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, turned professional in 1972 and retired in 1989. She won 18 Grand Slam singles titles, including a record seven French Open titles for a female player, and reached 34 Grand Slam singles finals—an all-time record in women’s singles. She held a career singles winning percentage of about 90% and was unanimously inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1995.

Why it matters

Evert’s baseline consistency and popularization of the two-handed backhand helped define modern women’s tennis and influenced later generations of players. Her career is relevant to Canadian readers through the international women’s tennis circuit, Grand Slam coverage, and her impact on the baseline style seen in players who competed in Canada and globally.

Key details

After retiring, Evert worked as a television commentator and tennis analyst and remained active in the sport, including charitable and advocacy work for women’s health. She learned tennis from her father, coach Jimmy Evert, and emerged as a dominant player in the 1970s and 1980s, winning major titles on hard courts, clay, and grass.