Martina Navratilova Stars in New Netflix Doc on Rivalry and Cancer Fight
**Martina Navratilova** headlines the Netflix documentary “Chris & Martina: The Final Set,” released on 26 Jun 2026, chronicling how she and Chris Evert supported each other through simultaneous cancer treatments while reflecting on their legendary rivalry.
The film follows Navratilova and Evert from their early 1970s clashes at Wimbledon to the summer of 2023, when both athletes entered treatment for early‑stage throat, breast and ovarian cancers. It captures candid conversations about how the health battles forced them to reassess their legacies and personal lives.
Evert entered remission after a diagnosis in Jan 2022, but on 23 Jun 2023 a routine CT scan showed a possible return. She underwent exploratory surgery later that week and announced a new chemotherapy round on 25 Jun via social media. Navratilova completed treatment for throat and breast cancers diagnosed 11 months after Evert’s initial diagnosis, finishing her regimen in early 2024.
Navratilova, now 69, uses the documentary to illustrate how battling illness sharpened her perspective on competition. She notes that surviving cancer gave her a fresh appreciation for the mental toughness required to win 18 Grand Slam singles titles. The film also highlights her role as a mentor, offering Evert emotional support during surgery and chemo, reinforcing the depth of their partnership beyond the court.
Emmy‑winning director Rebecca Gitlitz helmed the project, drawing from a Washington Post interview by sports writer Sally Jenkins conducted in spring 2023. Former ESPN chief John Skipper served as executive producer, emphasizing that the film aims to transcend typical sports narratives and focus on resilience.
Early viewer metrics show a 78 % completion rate, and critics praise the raw honesty of the duo’s dialogue. Navratilova’s candid remarks about “playing through pain” have resonated with fans, sparking renewed interest in her advocacy for health awareness. The documentary also sparked a surge in streaming searches for Navratilova’s classic matches, indicating a broader cultural impact.
Following the release, Navratilova plans to join a speaking tour focused on cancer survivorship and athlete wellness, starting with a keynote at the 2026 US Open on 12 Aug. She also hinted at a possible partnership with Trinity Audio to produce a limited‑edition podcast series exploring the mental side of tennis.
By confronting personal health struggles on a global platform, Navratilova adds a new chapter to a career already defined by 167 career titles and a record‑tying 9 Wimbledon singles crowns. The documentary cements her status not just as a tennis icon, but as a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity.