Chrissie/Hanika– Eckerd Open 1988
…Douglas

The only "Chrissie" match I was ever lucky enough to witness in person occurred toward the end of her career. I was in Largo Florida, at the Bardmoor Country Club, sitting in the front row. I could be mistaken, but I believe this was one of the last tournaments Chris won. At any rate, Chrissie had been upset by Sylvia Hanika at the year ending tournament (indoor hardcourts) at Madison Square Garden.

Unfortunately (for Ms. Hanika) instead of a fast indoor carpet, this match was
to take place on slow Florida clay. Chrissie was unbelievable!!! I only recall Chrissie missing one passing shot attempt the entire match! She beat Hanika 6-0, 6-1 in about 45 minutes....unreal.

My favorite memories of the match were the one forehand pass Chris missed down the line, she audibly said "Awww, Chris!", which was unusual and totally out of character because she was usually so quiet. And the "sly" sheepish glaring, playful leer she gave a linesman on a close call at the baseline, right after he had previously missed a call.

Chris was at her finest and I was really thankful to have had the opportunity to see her play in person, at her best, to comprehend what made her so special; the consistency and level of her greatness!

[Editor's Note: Chris won 3 more tournaments in 1988 after the Eckerd Open, including Houston the following week, where she beat Navratilova 6-0 6-4 in the finals for the title.]