History

Gods of Tennis

Framed through the world-famous Wimbledon tournament, revisit the golden age of tennis in this three-part fascinating series. Meet the heroes who changed the sport forever and drove significant change away from the tennis courts.

Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert

52m 40s

In 1990, Martina Navratilova dominates Wimbledon, yet struggles to be as adored as her rival, Chris Evert. Explore their rivalry and Navratilova's search for acceptance as she aspires to be the greatest player to ever grace Centre Court.

Episodes

  • Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert

    S1 E3 - 52m 40s

    In 1990, Martina Navratilova dominates Wimbledon, yet struggles to be as adored as her rival, Chris Evert. Explore their rivalry and Navratilova's search for acceptance as she aspires to be the greatest player to ever grace Centre Court.

  • Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe

    S1 E2 - 51m 26s

    Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe's showdowns in the Wimbledon finals in 1980 and 1981 are among the most memorable matches in the sport. They bring glamour and celebrity to what many consider the fiercest rivalry in men's tennis history.

  • Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe

    S1 E1 - 51m 7s

    In 1975, Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe are fighting to become Wimbledon champions — and away from the court they are also battling for social change on a global level.

Extras + Features

  • Opposites: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Opposites

    S1 E3 - 3m 30s

    At the 1978 Wimbledon Championships, a battle of contrasting styles and personalities unfolded as "America's Sweetheart" Chris Evert, known for her grace and precision, faced the fierce and athletic Martina Navratilova. This historic showdown, pitting elegance against aggression, captivated audiences and marked a pivotal moment in women's tennis.

  • Episode 3 Preview: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Episode 3 Preview

    S1 E3 - 30s

    In 1990, Martina Navratilova dominates Wimbledon, yet struggles to be as adored as her rival, Chris Evert. Explore their rivalry and Navratilova's search for acceptance as she aspires to be the greatest player to ever grace Centre Court.

  • Fiesty New Trailblazer: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Fiesty New Trailblazer

    S1 E3 - 1m 26s

    Martina Navratilova, a fiery and outspoken tennis star, shakes up the traditionally conservative world of tennis with her powerful game and unapologetic personality.

  • Martina Navratilova: Accepted: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Martina Navratilova: Accepted

    S1 E3 - 3m 4s

    Facing Tracy Austin at the 1981 US Open, Martina Navratilova plays her first match as an American citizen and openly gay athlete. Despite the loss, Navratilova receives a resounding ovation from the crowd, a powerful display of love and acceptance that transcends the outcome of the game.

  • 100% to Tennis: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    100% to Tennis

    S1 E2 - 1m 32s

    Tennis legend Bjorn Borg's unwavering dedication to his sport is unmatched. He prioritizes relentless training and competition, looking past the allure of fame and fandom, in his relentless pursuit of tennis greatness.

  • Borg vs. McEnroe: The Tie Break: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Borg vs. McEnroe: The Tie Break

    S1 E2 - 3m 37s

    Tennis icons Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe clash in a thrilling Wimbledon final, showcasing their contrasting styles and playing point-for-point in what is widely considered one of the greatest tennis matches of all time.

  • Called "Out": asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Called "Out"

    S1 E2 - 1m 58s

    At the 1981 Wimbledon Championships, a controversial line call sparked an unforgettable outburst from a young John McEnroe. This heated moment, immortalized by his iconic phrase "You cannot be serious!", propelled him into the spotlight, solidifying his reputation as a fiery and passionate tennis legend.

  • Episode 2 Preview: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Episode 2 Preview

    S1 E2 - 30s

    Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe's showdowns in the Wimbledon finals in 1980 and 1981 are among the most memorable matches in the sport. They bring glamour and celebrity to what many consider the fiercest rivalry in men's tennis history.

  • Battle of the Sexes: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Battle of the Sexes

    S1 E1 - 2m 50s

    Tennis legends Billie Jean King, Chris Evert, and others share their firsthand experiences and perspectives on the historic "Battle of the Sexes" match, offering a unique look into the cultural impact and significance of this pivotal moment in sports and gender equality.

  • Ashe vs. Connors: Ashe's Plan: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Ashe vs. Connors: Ashe's Plan

    S1 E1 - 2m 27s

    Arthur Ashe devises an unconventional game plan to topple the seemingly invincible Jimmy Connors at the 1975 Wimbledon finals, relying on finesse and cunning over power.

  • Preview: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Preview

    S1 - 30s

    Framed through the world-famous Wimbledon tournament, revisit the golden age of tennis in this three-part fascinating series. Meet the heroes who changed the sport forever and drove significant change away from the tennis courts.

Schedule

  • Image
    Gods of Tennis: Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe: TVSS: Iconic

    Gods of Tennis

    Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe

    Sunday
    Dec 29

    1 Hour

    Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe aim to win Wimbledon titles in 1975; off the court, they are both leaders of global social change.

WETA Passport

Stream tens of thousands of hours of your PBS and local favorites with WETA Passport whenever and wherever you want. Catch up on a single episode or binge-watch full seasons before they air on TV.