CHRISSIE: An Autobiography

by Chris Evert with Neil Amdur Lloyd ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 18, 1982

Lightweight and definitely rated ""G""--but entertaining nonetheless. Over the years Chrissie has managed to earn the respect of fans, players, and sportswriters for her skill and good manners; here, she reveals a more private, playful side. Starting--in typical tennis-star-story fashion--with the 1981 Wimbledon final (which she won after three previous losses), Chrissie flashes back to the beginning of her tennis days and works her way through the sweat and triumphs that got her to Wimbledon in '81. There's plenty in that story to keep readers going, Yes, she was pushed by her father, a tennis pro who also coached his other children; and though she was bothered by the long practices, and by missing the usual childhood and teenage activities, she now feels the rewards were worth it. Much space is devoted to the Jimmy Connors entanglement (intense), the Burr Reynolds interlude (funny and romantic) and the Jack Ford (""just friends"") episode, as well as to the happy ending with John Lloyd; but Chrissie is careful not to invade anyone's privacy, including her own. She's much more forthcoming--and satisfyingly thoughtful--on the peculiarities and hassles of playing pro tennis: relationships with women on the tour (from sexuality to the consequences of consistently walloping close friends); how older players are affected by, and affect, the young teen wonder players; the rigors of traveling 40 weeks a year. The humor and plain niceness will please even lukewarm tennis fans--while Chrissie's special following will be enthralled.

Pub Date: Aug. 18, 1982

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 1, 1982

Categories: NONFICTION