Eighteen-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert was moved to tears during a tribute marking the 50th anniversary of her maiden US Open triumph – and admitted she felt “like Coco Gauff“. On Monday, Gauff – who broke down in tears during her second-round victory due to serving difficulties – was knocked out of the US Open by Naomi Osaka on Monday. The Japanese player proved superior, whilst the 2023 title-holder couldn’t stem the flow of unforced errors.
Following Gauff’s departure, ESPN honoured Evert with an emotional video montage celebrating five decades since her 1975 US Open triumph. At that time, Evert claimed the title with a three-set victory over Australia’s Evonne Goolagong in Queens. The tribute featured heartfelt messages from tennis legends, including Billie Jean King and Patrick McEnroe, celebrating Evert’s achievements. Consequently, the 70-year-old became visibly emotional.
“I feel like Coco Gauff right now,” Evert remarked. “I’m sorry.” Evert’s comment alluded to Gauff’s tears during her second-round triumph against Donna Vekic. Gauff disclosed she experienced a panic attack mid-match, with emotions overflowing as she struggled with her serve – a component of her game causing recent difficulties.
Gauff is currently rebuilding her service technique. Therefore, the 21-year-old has been unable to rediscover her peak performance levels, with her Grand Slam campaign concluding against Osaka.
However, beyond Evert’s quip, the occasion proved deeply moving. Evert received heartfelt serenades from countless tennis legends who each celebrated both her prowess on court and her character off it.
“She’s one of my favourite all the human beings,” King declared of Evert in the video tribute. Martina Navratilova remarked: “There was something extremely relatable.
“She brought new fans to the game and made little girls and boys think, ‘Oh, I think I can do this. I can follow in those footsteps.”
Evert is married to Jimmy Connors, a former world No. 1 and eight-time Grand Slam champion who was a great rival of John McEnroe.
The ESPN commentator spotted his chance to inject some humour into proceedings. “The attention you brought to the sport, however, made me want to be a tennis player, and thankfully, I became one,” he told Evert. “And finally, like millions of other young boys I wanted to marry you, I admit it.
“Then you got engaged to Jimmy Connors. I hated that. If I ever play that guy, going to beat his ass. Chrissie, I love you, congrats. Glad I can call you a friend.”
Evert claimed six US Open titles alongside seven victories at Roland Garros, two Australian Open crowns, and three Wimbledon championships.