Jimmy Connors and Chris Evert were one of the most popular couples in sports in the 1970s. The two tennis stars were at the top of the food chain in their sport, which in many ways made them the ideal power couple. Connors and Evert were engaged to be married in 1974, but they split just weeks before their scheduled wedding date. The reason why may surprise you.
In his new memoir, “The Outsider,” Connors implied that he and Evert called off their wedding because of a complication that arose in their relationship when Evert became pregnant.
“An issue had arisen as a result of youthful passion, and a decision had to be made as a couple,” Connors wrote in the book, via the NY Post. “Chrissie called to say she was coming out to LA to take care of the ‘issue.’ I was perfectly happy to let nature take its course and accept responsibility for what was to come.”
Connors was 22 at the time and Evert was 19. Having come from a strict Catholic home, Evert reportedly felt that the timing of the pregnancy was bad and that she had no other choice. Connors said she asked him to handle the “details” and had already made up her mind.
“Well, thanks for letting me know,” he said he told her. “Since I don’t have any say in the matter, then I guess I am just here to help.”
Connors said he later told Evert that it would be best if they “take a step back” in their relationship, which did not sit well with her and ultimately led to the split. He said they fought hard to work out their issues but that it became difficult because of their rising status as sports stars.
“Can two No. 1’s exist in the same family?” he wrote.
It seems to be working out fine for Jay-Z and Beyonce.
