The tennis world thrives on its share of debates, and when legendary figures step in, the discussions only get spicier. This time, it’s none other than the iconic Chris Evert who’s stirred the pot, and she’s doing it for a cause close to her heart. Known for championing what she believes in, Evert has joined the buzz surrounding the call for a Wimbledon honor for the incomparable Roger Federer. In classic Evert style, she flipped the script, passionately advocating for her long-time friend and rival, Martina Navratilova, to receive similar recognition.

It all started when an X user took to the platform and asked a question related to Roger Federer. Sharing a picture of the Swiss Maestro’s stature, the user asked, “Does Roger Federer deserve a statue at Wimbledon?” This led to huge discussions within the tennis corridors with several people sharing their opinion. Soon, Evert joined the fray of people, expressing her perspective and questioning why the same tribute was not being discussed for Navratilova. 

Resharing the post, Evert wrote, “What about @Martina who’s won it 9 times? 💪🏼👏🤷‍♀️.” Navratilova and Evert have shared a close bond over the years despite being staunch rivals on the tour. Hence, as soon as her post gained traction, the discussions on the matter further strengthened.  

As soon as the post gained traction, several fans took to the platform and expressed their support for Evert’s statement. They opined that both Federer and Navratilova have demonstrated immense talent during their playing days and hence, both players receive an equal tribute at the All England Club.

Fans suggest equal tribute for Martina Navratilova and Roger Federer

Taking to X, one user wrote, “Yes, to both of them. One from ATP and one from WTA.” Both Roger Federer and Martina Navratilova have emerged as the icons of sport especially when it comes to Wimbledon. While the Swiss Maestro has amassed 8 titles at the venue, Navratilova has 9 Wimbledon titles under her arsenal that form 50% of her total Grand Slams. Hence, the demand of the fans is quite understandable. More such reactions continued to follow.

Responding to Evert’s comment, another user wrote, “Yes. Definitely the best Wimbledon Champion in my lifetime. Missed a few finals live when played on Friday afternoons when I was at school. So glad after my O levels I could finally watch the women’s final live.” Remember, Navratilova’s achievements in Wimbledon are not just limited to singles titles. The now-68-year-old has also won 7 titles in the doubles category and 4 in the mixed-doubles category, a record that even Federer could not achieve in his career. Besides she proved her mettle on other surfaces too winning 18 Grand Slams in total, 2 short of what Federer achieved in his career. Several others joined the fray with similar responses. 

“They’d both be great 👍,” wrote another user. Indeed! A close look at the career achievements of Federer and Navratilova has proved that both of them were fierce players in their respective categories and dominated the courts. While Federer won 1251 matches in his career with a victory percentage of 81.97, Navratilova won 1,442 encounters taking her winning percentage to 86.81. Besides, both of them have set incredible records in the open era, with 103 and 177 total career titles, respectively, which makes it more clear why the fans are raising such demands. 

One more user joined the fray and wrote, “Thank you Chris Evert! I fear I might not witness consideration & celebration of/for female athletes till the end of my life .. it’s enraging (& sad)” The tennis world has often faced allegations of partiality between male and female players. Several legends of the game like Serena Williams and Billie Jean King have often voiced themselves over the matter, be it related to unequal payment at certain events or different treatments that the players get. Now, with Evert publicly demanding an equal tribute for Navratilova, fans believe that such differences might be resolved in the near future.

Yet another user shared a similar response and simply questioned, “Why not both? 🤝🏻.” For now, it would be interesting to see if the Wimbledon officials will actually pay heed to these conversations and come up with some plans to honor Navratilova and Federer at the venue.