Tribeca

Chris & Martina: The Final Set Directed by Rebecca Gitlitz

The documentary "Chris & Martina: The Final Set" directed by Rebecca Gitlitz examines the legendary 20‑year rivalry between Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, two of tennis’s most iconic figures. The film, set to debut at the Tribeca Film Festival, follows their journey from fierce competition to a shared battle with cancer, framing their story as both a sports saga and a personal odyssey. Gitlitz highlights how the diagnosis of cancer—Evert’s breast cancer and Navratilova’s pancreatic cancer—served as an unexpected catalyst that deepened their connection. The narrative interweaves archival match footage, personal interviews, and candid moments of vulnerability, illustrating how mortality forced both athletes to confront identity beyond the court and to redefine resilience. Key moments include Navratilova describing their bond as "untouchable" and Evert reflecting on the paradox of rivalry and friendship. The director emphasizes that the women are not merely female athletes but multidimensional individuals whose love for the game and each other transcends competition. By humanizing two sports icons, the film invites audiences to reconsider how elite athletes navigate personal crises, offering broader lessons on perseverance, empathy, and the universal struggle against illness.