6 questions for Chris Evert

By Lynn DeBruin, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published July 31, 2008 at 3:33 p.m.

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Photo by Jerilee Bennett, The Gazette

In a black ball cap and sunglasses, Chris Evert blends into the crowd while watching her husband, Greg Norman, putt on the fourth hole on the first day of the U.S. Senior Open at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs.

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Chris Evert walked 18 holes outside the ropes Thursday as she followed newlywed husband Greg Norman during his round of 70 in the U.S. Senior Open at Broadmoor East. She took time to chat with the Rocky's Lynn DeBruin.

1. What does it mean for you to be out here watching Greg?

"It's really funny because when we first started seeing each other, we both said to each other, 'You know, the one thing I missed is I didn't get to see you compete when you were at your best.' That's what I miss about me, too, that he could have watched me compete at my best. There's no way I'll ever compete again but it's almost like I'm seeing him nearly at his best. And seeing him play some great golf. It's a real treat for me. This month, the wedding, the Brtitish Open, this month has been like the best month of our lives, I think."

2. Does it seem surreal?

"When I look back at the British Open, that he came in third, it's hard to believe in a good way, that he still has that talent and that fire in him. Now whether it's going to be consistently there is another question."

3. Some people give you some credit for that?

"I think what's really important is the environment around an athlete. And the atmosphere and the dynamic of a family, because I see that with our junior tennis players. And I think he's just really relaxed and at a good place and feels like he's done it all and doesn't feel pressure. If I receive any credit it's just to make him feel relaxed, but I I'm not out there hitting the ball."

4. How many autographs did you sign while mingling with the crowd outside the ropes?

"Everybody's been so friendly because I've been here before. I was here when they dedicated the club, and my former coach Dennis Ralston used to be the pro here."

5. What else have you done on this trip to Colorado?

"I went to Denver for three days and spent three days with my boys because they're in Aspen for the summer with their father. They were skateboarding at Woodward Skateboard Park. I just watched them the whole time. I haven't seen them in a month so that was fun.

6. Where are you off to after this?

"The ranch (near Meeker), next week."

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